Because Pavlova doesn't travel very well.
The best gifts for Australians living overseas
For Aussies living in other countries, Christmases, birthdays and other special occasions can be some of the hardest times of the year to be apart - especially given the current state of international travel. But that doesn't mean there aren't ways to brighten their special day and let them know you're thinking of them and missing them.
Whether it's a friend, partner or family member, here are some of the best gifts for Australians living overseas.
The best gifts for Australians living overseas
A taste of home
Anyone who's spent a decent chunk of time away from Australia can attest to the longing one feels for a humble packet of TimTams or a glass of milk topped with a truly excessive amount of Milo.
Down Under Box offers a bunch of different hampers for your Aussie loved one to give them a taste of home. Boxes start at $40, or you can build your own from $55, choosing from a selection of goodies like Vegemite, Shapes, Wagon Wheels, Caramello Koalas and more.
A subscription box
These days there are subscription boxes for just about every niche interest you could possibly imagine. Escape rooms, Dungeons and Dragons, jerky, self-care, hot sauce, Japanese snacks... you name it, it probably exists on CrateJoy.
Most of their subscription boxes cost between $20 and $40 each, and you can choose to buy a box as a one-off or pre-pay for 3, 6 or 12 months of deliveries. Speaking of deliveries, CrateJoy ships internationally, so they also make great gifts for relos and friends here in Oz, too!
Aboriginal art, jewellery and homewares
Give them something that will always remind them of Australia with a beautiful gift made by an Aboriginal artist or designer.
There are plenty of websites claiming to sell authentic Aboriginal products, but stick to First Nations-owned and operated retailers like Clothing the Gaps, jewellery designer Haus of Dizzy (featured above), nonprofit organisation Welcome to Country and gift marketplace First Nations Gifts.
Long-distance touch lamp
Given the difficult couple of years we've all had being separated from friends and family (regardless of whether they live across the road or across the pond), this gift idea couldn't be more perfect.
Friendship Lamps are touch lamps connected via Wi-Fi. When you touch your lamp, the other will light up and vice versa. It's a cute way to let someone know you're thinking about them, missing them, or simply want to say 'hi'.
You can get an individual lamp all the way up to a set of up to six if you've got a big family or friend group stretched all over the world (or even just throughout Australia).
Wine club subscription
You may not be able to toast in person, but getting them a wine subscription is just about the next best thing. There are online wine subscriptions operating in most countries, allowing you to buy a bundle once-off or, if you're feeling particularly generous, on a recurring monthly basis.
The most economical way to give this gift is to find a wine club in their country. Many offer free (or at least cheap) local shipping, so you can spend more on the good stuff instead.
Here are a few subscription wine clubs in some of the most popular Aussie expat destinations.
Australia candle
If you're the kind of person who doesn't consider a gift successful unless it makes the recipient cry, might we suggest this Australian-scented delight from Homesick Candles?
Featuring notes of eucalyptus, saltwater, jasmine, lily, sandalwood and even sunscreen, it'll instantly transport them back to those warm sunny days in Oz. Maybe send them a packet of tissues with this one.