Household spending soars over the past year

This driven by spending on essential goods and services

Household spending soars over the past year

News

By Mina Martin

Household spending has surged 3.1% compared to the same period last year, driven by spending on essential goods and services, according to new ABS data.

“Non-discretionary spending rose 5.8 % compared to November last year, as spending on transport and health increased by 8.3% and 7.8%, respectively,” said Robert Ewing, ABS head of business statistics.

“Meanwhile, Black Friday sales boosted discretionary spending in November, similar to the previous year, so that households spent 0.3% more than November 2022 on discretionary goods and services.

“Spending on furnishings and household equipment was 1.7% higher than the same time last year, while clothing and footwear fell 0.1%.” 

The positive trend extends across all states and territories, with the Northern Territory leading the way with an impressive 8.7% rise in spending. South Australia followed with a 5.2% increase, and Western Australia recorded a 4.6% uptick in household spending compared to the same period last year, ABS reported.

For a detailed overview of household spending trends, refer to Monthly Household Spending Indicator, November 2023.

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