For every $100 spent with a small businesses in Port Stephens, $60 stays in the community which is why individuals are being asked to consider shopping local this Christmas.
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Research undertaken by Port Stephens Council has revealed the economic benefits in shopping local compared to buying online, in which just $3.50 of every $100 spent through online retailers is estimated to stay within the local economy.
Brock Lamont, the council's strategy and environment section manager, said most people know shopping local is important but may not understand the "huge impact" it can have on a local economy.
"Every time you spend money, you vote with your dollar. When you shop local, each dollar you spend is a vote for local business, local jobs and local people," Mr Lamont said.
"The impacts of COVID-19 on our local economy have been huge and many businesses have struggled to make ends meet.
"During lockdown, many of us realised just how important our local shops are to our community. This Christmas, we want everyone to show their support and make sure they choose local first."
The council is encouraging the Port Stephens community to buy a gift that will benefit a local business, whether it is an item from a locally-owned store, a four wheel drive experience, a dolphin watch cruise or a dinner voucher from a local restaurant.
"It doesn't matter if you want to buy a pushbike, some jewelry, a bunch of flowers or homewares - it's all available in Port Stephens," Mr Lamont said.
