14 dads told us what they actually want for Father's Day.

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Father's Day rolls around every year (FYI in 2025, Father's Day falls on September 7) and we find ourselves picking up the same predictable gifts.

Novelty socks. "World's Best Dad" mugs. Ties they'll never wear.

But what if we told you that the dads in our lives are craving something completely different?

Watch: Do any of these classic dad sayings sound familiar? Post continues below.

We decided to dig deeper and ask real Aussie dads what they actually want for Father's Day – no holds barred, no polite suggestions, just honest answers from the heart.

We spoke to all kinds of dads, from new fathers navigating sleepless nights to seasoned veterans whose kids have flown the nest. Here's what they told us.

What do dads want for Father's Day?

1. "Quality time with my loved ones. Seeing a movie with my loved ones, dinner — again, with my loved ones. Not things, but just time with my loved ones." - my dad Trevor.

2. "The perfect Father's Day with my daughter would be simple and full of joy. No agenda. Waking up to her giggles, making pancakes together, and spending the day, as we like; playground, friends, swimming, dancing in the living room, a long lunch at a family-friendly place and lots of cuddles. - Shane.

3. "Just soaking up every morning with my little girl. But if there are no limitations? A beach in Hawaii. Or a road trip in a Maserati." - Marcus.

4. "My gift wishlist, in no particular order… Two hours of uninterrupted toilet and reading time. Breakfast with coffee and a newspaper. I literally can't remember the last time I read a newspaper at breakfast. A day at the wave park. A long lunch with my family and close friends. Massage and afternoon nap. Dinner date and live music. Bed, ideally before midnight." - Aaron.

5. "I'd love to say something mature and meaningful, but I'm a dad who loves dad jokes! For Father's Day, I enjoy gifts that include dad humour, reminding me of the ongoing tradition of pranks and jokes I share with my daughters." - Jamie.

6. "This will sound generic, but time to do a form of "male meditation" like going to the footy, playing golf or focusing on passion projects that have had less time since having kids. Of course, also being deliberate in spending time together on Father's Day doing something that's an experience together. It could be as simple as a family bike ride or something new we haven't done as a family." - Thom.

7. "I think my perfect day would be a dive, surf or swim to kick off the day, and then brunch/lunch and hang time with the tribe and maybe a BBQ to finish. I'm not a big "stuff" guy." - Richard.

8. "Dads are simple creatures. They just want to hang with the fam and have some family time." - Leigh.

9. "I'd say something I actually need (replacing something worn out) or something I can use for a hobby (surf gear, guitar strings) or just a case of beer." - Sam.

10. "Truthfully, what I would love from Father's Day is two-pronged: Firstly, I want to spend quality time with my babies, whatever that looks like — an activity or slothing about. And then what I would like as a gift is a day free from all papa bear responsibilities." - Kelly.

11. "A morning coffee with my girls and then, as my daughter gets older, a small handmade keepsake. For example, last year she gave me a seashell from our time at the beach together." - Mike.

12. "Dads want a hug from their kids regardless of their age and the opportunity to spend time with them one on one". - Tony.

13. Wake up and coffee with the fam, a beach walk (and maybe a surf if it's pumping), followed by meeting up with all the other dad crew and the kids for a gathering (mums too!)." - Matt.

14. "I'd say an experience as first choice. Second choice would be a gift you are going to repeatedly use nearly day in, day out." - Terry,

Best Father's Day gifts to shop.

Forget the stereotypes about power tools and barbecue accessories, we've rounded up a selection of seriously cool things you can add to your cart to show the dads or father figures in your lives that you really care.

From the coolest kicks and skincare (because blokes should also have a beauty routine) to pasta machines (great activity to do with the kids) and adventure experiences for everyone to enjoy together, there's something here for everyone.

Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66, $200.

Image: The Iconic

Unison Oxford Regular Fit Shirt, $89.95.

Image: The Iconic

adidas Originals Samba OG sneakers, $152.

Image: ASOS

L'occitane L'Homme Cologne Cedrat Shower Gel, $45.

Image: The Iconic

Clinique Daily Hydration - Cleanse. Exfoliate. Hydrate, $74.

Image: The Iconic

CALVIN KLEIN Obsession for Men Deodorant Stick, $25.

Image: Adore Beauty

The Cook Collective Pasta Maker, $89.95.

Image: Myer

Maxwell and Williams Speakeasy Spin Decanter 1.4L Gift Boxed, $71.97.

Image: Myer

Glenfiddich 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky, $124.95.

Image: Dan Murphys

Oura Ring Gen3 Health Tracker, $304.31.

Image: Oura

Red Balloon Experience Gifts.

Image: Red Balloon

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Feature Image: Supplied.