Australia, 21 December 2025 – With just three days to go until Christmas Eve, the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal is asking every community to come together and donate — as 1.7 million Australians will rely on the kindness of strangers to receive a gift under the tree — and every contribution helps make Christmas brighter for those in need.
The 2025 Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal officially launched in early November at Parliament House, where the Prime Minister joined Kmart Group and The Salvation Army to place the first gifts under the Wishing Tree.
Since then, the Appeal has gathered momentum nationwide, with community, government and in-store events held across multiple states, supported by thousands of Kmart team members, customers and volunteers.
Kmart Group Managing Director, Aleks Spaseska, said the final days of the Appeal are a crucial opportunity for Australians to make a difference.
“The Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal has been bringing Australians together for nearly four decades, and once again we’ve seen extraordinary generosity from our team members, our customers and our communities.
As we enter the final days of this year’s Appeal, it’s important to recognise just how critical this period is. More people are needing support this year, and every gift — no matter how big or small — makes a meaningful difference. There is still time to donate, and every contribution helps ensure no child or family feels forgotten this Christmas.
Together with our trusted partners at The Salvation Army, our dedicated Kmart team members and the generosity of all Australians, we are proud to be making a real and meaningful difference in the lives of families when they need it most — helping to make everyday living brighter.”
New December Salvation Army research shows the need remains significant. Nearly half of Australians (49%) are worried about affording Christmas this year, while more than 1.7 million people will seek support from a charity over the festive season — half of them for the very first time.
Despite ongoing cost-of-living pressures, Australians continue to give generously. Last year alone, the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal, alongside The Salvation Army, delivered:
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360,000 gifts and toys
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177,000 meals for people experiencing homelessness
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More than 89,000 beds for families in need of accommodation.
Since its inception, the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal has distributed more than 14 million gifts, making it Australia’s largest and longest-running Christmas gift drive. All donations collected in Kmart stores are distributed by The Salvation Army to individuals and families experiencing hardship across the country.
The Salvation Army’s Colonel Rodney Walters said the final days of the Appeal are critical for families in need.
“Every year, Australians support The Salvation Army and the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal to bring hope to people in our community who need a hand. Through the generosity and kindness of those who donate, we’re able to ensure that no one who reaches out to us at Christmas time misses out on a present under the tree.
With only a few days left, we’re asking Australians to give if they can, because the need remains great and every gift truly makes a difference.”
With Christmas just days away, Australians are invited to take part in the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal. You can round up your total at self-checkout, add a small donation when finalising your transaction at the register, or take an extra step to find a gift to place under the tree at your local store before the Appeal closes on 24 December.
How to Support the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal
The 2025 Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal runs in stores from 10 November to 24 December. Australians can contribute via:
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Gift Donations: Drop off a new, unwrapped gift at any Kmart store. Gifts don’t need to be purchased from Kmart. Practical items that can be used year-round are encouraged.
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At the checkout: Add $2 via donation cards or round up your total at self-checkout
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In-store: Drop coins into the Wishing Tree collection boxes, select a $2 donation gift card from any Wishing Tree or add a $2 donation at the registers.
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Online: Scan the in-store QR code or donate via the Appeal website
Purchase: A $2 donation is made to the Appeal from the purchase of the Kenzie Christmas Plush Bear, Kenzie's Night Before Christmas Book , Christmas Family Matching Knit Pyjama Set's, and Christmas cards and wrapping paper.
About us:
About the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal
Now in its 38th year, the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal is Australia’s largest and longest-running gift collection drive. Since its inception, over 14 million gifts have been distributed to families in need, with the support of The Salvation Army and Kmart customers nationwide.
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is an international not-for-profit organisation supporting Australians facing hardship, from homelessness and family violence to natural disasters and addiction. The Salvos offer inclusive, wraparound care and help communities build positive, empowered futures.
Contact details:
For any enquiries please contact: [email protected]