Adding to the cheer is the fact the exchange rate for the Australian dollar is also helping by making overseas imports less attractive.

It all points to a positive climate in the lead up to the annual visit by Santa and, according to Angus Edwards from the Bathurst Business Chamber, it is a time of year local retailers always look forward to.

“The exchange rate isn’t only good for our agriculture sector, it also puts our retailers in a better position,” he said.

“Online overseas purchases cost more and makes us more competitive. The cash stays in the local economy instead of going out of the country. It certainly gives retailers a better shot.”

Mr Edwards said the economy is “still pretty tight” at the moment.

“The increase in fuel excise is going to take more money out of people’s pockets, particularly in country areas where there is no public transport, there are longer distances to travel and there isn’t any alternative but to take the car,” he said. 

“A lot of retailers are doing it pretty tough and, again, the Bathurst Business Chamber encourages people to shop local and support local jobs whenever they can.

“The benefits of spending a few more dollars to keep your business in town can’t be stressed enough. People have the impression going to Sydney means the goods will be cheaper, but that isn’t necessarily the case because prices are about the same.

“Shopping locally has its benefits by having the added convenience and security of knowing you have back up of local service behind you.

“If you need to take something back it’s a whole lot easier if the product has been sourced from here and good luck if you have to send something back to an overseas destination.”

Mr Edwards said the Christmas shopping season seems to start earlier each year.

“I think it’s because retailers are looking to make up for the slower times they experience during the year,” he said.

Petrie’s Mitre 10 Bathurst manager Chris Wade said this was a busy time of year for them.

“Dad’s always got his list of goodies he wants under the tree for his workshop,” he said. “We find that barbecues, outdoor furniture, items from our garden section and power tools are popular presents.

“Really, anything for the person who is handy around the house, you’ll find it here at Petrie’s Mitre 10.”

In the meantime, the NSW Business Chamber reports that businesses continue to report better conditions, with improvements across most key indicators, and these improvements are expected to carry through to the December quarter.

“After a slight decline in the previous quarter, business perceptions of the performance of the NSW economy look set to return to the positive levels of late 2013 and early 2014,” its latest report states. 

The most common concern for businesses continues to be uncertainty over the federal budget and its impact on consumer confidence.