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Australian Household Spending Rises 0.6 Per Cent in September on Fuel Costs
Australian household spending rises 0.6 per cent in September on higher fuel costs.
Key points
- Household spending rose 0.6 per cent in September 2026 after a 0.1 per cent fall in August.
- Fuel spending rose 5.4 per cent over the month, driven by higher oil prices linked to the US-Iran war.
- Spending on live entertainment, electronic goods and gambling was supported by major sporting events.
Why it matters. Inflation of 4.3 per cent over the 12 months means households paid more on average for the same everyday goods and services.
Australian household spending rose 0.6 per cent in September 2026 after a 0.1 per cent fall in August, the Australian Bureau of Statistics said on Wednesday. Fuel spending jumped 5.4 per cent over the month due to the US-Iran war, while spending for the 12 months to September reached 6.8 per cent against inflation of 4.3 per cent. Health spending rose on GP visits and a late flu season, the ABS said.
Latest updates
Australian Household Spending Rises 0.6 Per Cent in September on Fuel Costs
The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported on Wednesday that household spending rose 0.6 per cent in September 2026. This followed a 0.1 per cent fall in August. The increase was largely driven by higher oil and fuel prices, with healthcare costs also contributing. The ABS data indicates that much of the rise reflects inflation rather than stronger consumer demand. Analysts suggest the trend may not be a clear benefit for businesses.