Australian households are gearing up for the country’s biggest night of dairy consumption, with an estimated 11 million families leaving a glass of milk out for Santa Claus this Christmas Eve.

This festive tradition is expected to drive demand for a record 5.5 million litres of milk to be consumed in just one night – enough to fill more than two Olympic swimming pools.

As the countdown to Christmas begins, the team at Norco - Australia’s oldest and last operating 100 per cent farmer-owned dairy co-operative - is ready to meet the surge in milk consumption as families stock up for Santa’s visit.

Norco Chief Executive Officer Michael Hampson said the dairy co-operative saw an almost 20 per cent increase in milk sales in the week before Christmas last year and expects a similar spike in demand this season.

“From the farm to the factory floor, our team is working hard to ensure Santa gets the very best this Christmas – because we all know his favourite milk is Norco,” Mr Hampson said.

“This time of year brings families together, and we’re proud to play a part in preserving such a cherished holiday tradition.

“Knowing that our farmer’s milk is bringing Christmas cheer to Australian children is the best gift we could ask for – and we hope Santa thinks so too!”

As he gears up to climb down chimneys across the country, Santa himself shared his excitement ahead of his journey Down Under.

"I always look forward to my trip to Australia, because nothing beats fresh Aussie dairy,” Santa said.

“Norco milk is my absolute favourite, and it keeps me fuelled all night long. A huge thanks to Norco's hardworking farmers for helping spread the Christmas cheer one glass at a time."

For Norco’s 281 farmer members across 190 dairy farms, the seasonal boost is a welcome way to finish the year, with every cent from every Norco milk sold going directly back to support local farmers and their regional communities.