Mel, thanks for asking, here are a few reasons,
Once Christmas is over I do feel the inevitable post Christmas let down but January is a busy month in Australia.
School is out, a lot of people head out of the cities to the beach, the pace is slower. DH and I own a property out in the bush so we head there for a break. We like to do a few road trips if possible, but if not relaxing at home is fine.
DD and I both have birthdays in January and of course Australians celebrate our National day on January 26th. Lots of picnics, bbqs and get togethers in January.
As for shopping, the after Christmas sales are always a great place to pick up an early bargain or two, I always get a great jumpstart on the next years gifts just after Christmas.
I also like January as it is a whole new start. The new year is a great time to set some goals and to just take stock. I do a lot of rearranging, planning and organizing at the start of the new year.