Warmer than usual weather is being credited for a lift in Australia’s retail turnover in August.
Historically warm winter weather encouraged consumers to stock up on items like summer clothing and outdoor equipment.
Australian Bureau of Statistics figures, released today, showed spending was up 0.7 percent in the month.
This followed growth of 0.1 percent in July 2024 and 0.5 percent in June 2024.
ABS Head of Business Statistics Robert Ewing linked the rise to weather and Father’s Day.
“This year was the warmest August on record since 1910, which saw more spending on items typically purchased in spring,” he said.
“This included summer clothing, liquor, outdoor dining, hardware, gardening items, camping goods and outdoor equipment.
“The lift in turnover from the warmer weather was also boosted by higher discretionary spending as consumers took advantage of Father’s Day sales events during the month.”
The ABS said turnover rose in most industries with department stores up 1.6 percent followed by clothing, footwear and personal accessory retailing at 1.5 percent and other retailing at 1.3 percent.
Household goods retailing (-0.3 percent) was the only industry to fall.
Both food-related industries rose, led by cafes, restaurants and takeaway food services (1.0 percent) and food retailing (0.6 percent).
“More people were out dining at cafes and restaurants enjoying the warm end to the winter months, which also boosted spending on alcohol consumed at home,” Mr Ewing said.
“While the Eastern mainland states led the rises, most states and territories benefitted from the earlier-than-usual spring temperatures.”
The full report is on the ABS website.
