Household spending across Australia, including in Melton and Moorabool, has increased by 7.7 per cent in February 2022, compared with the same time last year.
ABS’s Head of macroeconomic statistics Jacqui Vitas said the largest rise in household spending was for clothing and footwear (20.2 per cent), recreation and culture (17.8 per cent) and hotels, cafes and restaurants (15.6 per cent).
“Household spending increased in seven of the nine spending categories in February 2022, compared to February 2021. The only categories with decreased spending over the same period were on alcoholic beverages and tobacco (-10.3 per cent) and miscellaneous goods and services (-0.8 per cent),” Ms Vitas said.
“Fewer COVID-19 cases in February, alongside the further easing of restrictions over the month saw increased spending in recreation, hospitality and retail venues.”
Across the country other states and territories also recorded increases in household spending.
Western Australia saw the strongest intake (12.1 per cent) and Northern Territory the weakest rise (0.6 per cent).
