Halloween is gaining traction in Australia even as some remain unconvinced by its American roots.
New research from YouGov reveals that 52% of Australians intend to celebrate Halloween this year, even though 69% say it feels like an unnecessary import from the US.
Younger Australians are leading participation. Gen Z (77%) and Millennials (75%) are far more likely than others to celebrate, and less likely to see it as a US import (59% and 53%). Participation rises further among parents, with 78% planning to join the festivities in some form.
From Halloween parties to handing out treats
Among those who intend to celebrate, around one in five plan to give out lollies or treats to trick-or-treaters (21%) or watch Halloween-themed movies or shows at home (20%). Others plan to decorate their homes (18%), buy Halloween-themed food or treats (17%), or attend a Halloween party or event (16%).
Halloween is getting harder to ignore
The occasion appears to be gaining visibility across the country, with nearly two-thirds of Australians (64%) saying Halloween has become a bigger deal in their local area over the past few years. Even among those who don't plan to celebrate this year, 55% acknowledge its growing presence.
Halloween's appeal also extends beyond childhood. Four in ten Australians (41%) say they enjoy Halloween as adults, not just as an occasion for children. That rises to 68% of Gen Z, 58% of Millennials and 58% of parents.
Even among sceptics, the pull is strong. Among those who say Halloween feels like an unnecessary US import, 39% are still planning some Halloween activity to join the festivities.
Not everyone is opening the door
Despite its growing visibility, Australians have some reservations around the celebration. Close to two in three Australians (63%) would rather not have trick-or-treaters come to their house, with Gen X and Boomers most likely to say so (65% and 80%, respectively).
Methodology
YouGov Surveys: Serviced provides quick survey results from nationally representative or targeted audiences in multiple markets. The findings are based on responses from 1045 Australian adults, collected between September 28 and October 1, 2026.