Queensland residents stockpiling in the lead-up to Tropical Cyclone Alfred was not enough to prevent a drop in retail turnover in the State in March.
The latest Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data shows Queensland was the only state to register a drop, with Australian retail turnover, overall, rising by 0.3 percent.
ABS Head of Business Statistics Robert Ewing said this followed growth of 0.2 percent in February and 0.4 percent in January 2025.
“Retail spending continues to grow at a steady pace, with food-related spending in supermarkets and grocery stores the main driver of growth,” Mr Ewing said.
“Supermarket and grocery store sales were especially strong in Queensland where households stockpiled essentials in anticipation of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.”
He said food retailing (+0.7 percent) had the largest rise, alongside other retailing (+0.7 percent).
“Cafes, restaurants and takeaway food services and department stores both fell by 0.5 percent.”
Mr Ewing said retail turnover rose in all states and territories, except for Queensland (-0.4 per cent) as Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred negatively impacted spending.
“The extreme weather early in the month led to significant disruptions for businesses and households throughout Queensland,” he said.
“Strong spending in food retailing thanks to precautionary buying wasn’t enough to offset other impacts.
“These included temporary business closures for many retailers, particularly cafes and restaurants, while people were also advised to stay home and avoid unnecessary travel,”Mr Ewing said.
