What Aussie Dads Actually Want as Gifts?

What Aussie Dads Actually Want as Gifts?

Key takeaways

  • Time together beats pricey stuff—keep it simple and personal.
  • Some dads want peace and a slow day more than presents.
  • If you buy a gift, make it useful, tasty, or tied to a shared experience.
  • Handmade cards and small gestures matter more than you think.
  • Or think bigger: choose something that helps Dad feel sharper, stronger, and age like fine wine—gear that blends comfort, style, and self-care.

The real gift: time (and less rush)

As we get older, time together matters most. Many dads in the thread didn’t ask for gadgets. They asked for a day that feels easy and real.

“Maybe a pub lunch and a chat is all he would want.” — u/Ecstatic_Test7569

“Came here to say the EXACT same thing.” — u/heg-the-grey

Make it relaxed. No packed schedule. No racing around. Pick one simple thing and enjoy it.

Peace and quiet counts too

Some dads want the exact opposite: space.

“Peace and quiet… Just leave me alone the lot of ya!” — u/Old_Dingo69 (edited for language)

If that sounds like your dad, give him a slow morning. Bring him a brew, keep the chores light, and let him set the pace.

Experiences over clutter

When in doubt, choose something to do together—especially food and family time.

“Cook something he likes or fire up the BBQ… little cutlets or a whole fish would impress me.” — u/sandybum01

“A nice dinner.” — u/Deluxe-T
“Baked snapper?” — u/That_Copy7881

Father's Day Gift Ideas:

  • BBQ at home with Dad’s favourite cuts and sauces.

  • Yum cha, pub lunch, or a seafood dinner.

  • A day trip somewhere close—no long drives, no fuss.

Small, handmade, from the kids

The most-loved gifts in the thread weren’t expensive.

“A hand-made card from each of my kids… Means so much more than junky, unneeded presents.” — u/Electronic_Shake_152

“Looking forward to their proud faces when they give me their handmade cards.” — u/HankSteakfist

Make a card. Print a photo. Write a short note about a memory you’ll never forget. It sticks.

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Practical wins (and why vouchers still work)

Useful > flashy. Keep it simple and targeted.

“Bunnings voucher… always a winner. Last year I taped a $5 to the voucher so he could go to the sausage sizzle lol.” — u/squirlysquirel

“i literally need undies and socks though” — u/KDslimreaper

Practical gift ideas:

  • Bunnings voucher (with snag money taped on top).

  • Socks/undies restock (quality over quantity).

  • Shaving kit, moisturiser, or body wash he’ll actually use. (See u/Flat_Ad1094’s note about “beauty” stuff that doesn’t go to waste.)

Hobby gear? Tread carefully

Lots of dads said: please don’t guess my hobby gear.

“Anything you try to buy me related to my hobbies I will not be happy with.” — u/No_pajamas_7

If your dad’s picky about his setup, skip gear and go with time, food, or a voucher that lets him choose.

Niche but fun: the “bug hunter” gift

One of the funniest threads? Pest battles.

“Dad wants the laser sight for his Bug-A-Salt gun… better shot with wasps than flies.” — u/Winter_Astronaut_550

If your dad is that guy, a quirky add-on for a tool he already loves can be a hit.

If he insists on “nothing”

A lot of dads simply wanted recognition, rest, or a moment with the kids.

“A small amount of craft that expresses appreciation and love, a reasonably simple breakfast made by the kids, and a day of family activities.” — [deleted]

“Quality time with my boy… just the lads hanging out.” — u/EconomicsOk2648

Give him a slow morning. Make breakfast. Write a note. Watch the footy or a film. That’s the good stuff.

Quick decision guide (pick one path)

  • He wants calm: Sleep-in + coffee + no errands.
  • He wants time together: BBQ, pub lunch, or a short day trip.
  • He’s a “no gift” dad: Handmade card + favourite snack + a walk.
  • He’s practical: Bunnings voucher, socks/undies, or grooming kit.
  • He loves a laugh: A quirky add-on (hello, Bug-A-Salt laser).
  • He’s picky about hobbies: Don’t guess—write a note and gift a voucher.

The point of Father’s Day

It’s not about spending big. It’s about letting your old man feel seen. Whether you sit quietly on the veranda, smash a snag in the backyard, or wrap up a pair of socks and a card—make it yours. Keep it simple. Keep it kind. And don’t forget a hug.


This article draws on real responses from a year-old thread on r/AskAnAustralian, including quotes from u/Old_Dingo69, u/Ecstatic_Test7569, u/sandybum01, u/HankSteakfist, u/squirlysquirel, u/No_pajamas_7, u/Winter_Astronaut_550, u/Electronic_Shake_152, u/EconomicsOk2648 and others. Thanks to the dads who kept it honest (and funny).

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