Forget the smashed avocado stereotype, young Aussies are officially the nation’s most committed savers, with new NAB Wellbeing data revealing 18–29yearolds have the strongest saving intent of any age group.
11 February 2026 | 2 min read
11 February 2026
18-29-year-olds are the most committed savers of any age group
89% of young women and 85% of young men are actively putting money aside
Many young Australians like Arna Bergen are simplifying their finances by consolidating debts to stay in control and boost savings
Forget the smashed avocado stereotype, young Aussies are officially the nation’s most committed savers, with new NAB Wellbeing data revealing 18–29yearolds have the strongest saving intent of any age group.
And even though “cutback fatigue” is hitting hard, three in four Australians (75%) say they’re trying to save. But younger Australians stand out, with 89% of young women and 85% of young men actively saving despite being hit hardest by housing costs and essential bills like groceries and utilities.
NAB Retail Executive Belinda Mamet says young adults deserve far more credit for how hard they’ve been budgeting.
“Young Aussies should give themselves credit for how much they’ve already done. Cutting back and saving can feel boring but our younger customers are managing their savings well,” Ms Mamet said.
“People have worked incredibly hard to manage rising costs over the past few years. Budgeting can feel like fitness, you can’t be perfect all the time, and you can’t sprint forever.
“If you’re exhausted with cut back fatigue, don’t cut more, just don’t quit what you’re already doing. Small, repeatable actions can make a big difference.
“The New Year is a natural moment to pause, reset, and make a couple of small changes that help you feel back in control after a busy summer of celebrations and higher than usual spending.”
NAB customer Arna Bergen knows exactly what “cut‑back fatigue” feels like, and what happens when money stress starts piling up after the summer break.
“I’d already made plenty of cutbacks and wanted to feel more organised financially,” Ms Bergen said.
“I had a few repayments spread across different banks, and I realised I needed a clearer picture of where everything was at.
“Consolidating some of my debt into a personal loan and moving the higher-rate credit card balance really simplified things. Suddenly everything was in one place and much easier to manage.
“Once everything was organised, it stopped sitting in the back of my mind. I feel in control, and I’m paying things off faster and saving more than before. It’s actually been a really positive reset.”
For more information on managing debt or to speak with NAB’s support team, visit nab.com.au/wecare.
