Retail spending in Australia rose by a modest percentage in August, buoyed mostly by the warmer weather.
Figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics found monthly turnover for the retail industry increased by 0.7 per cent.
Robert Ewing, ABS head of business statistics, said the increased spending was boosted due to unseasonable heat during August.
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“This year was the warmest August on record since 1910, which saw more spending on items typically purchased in spring,” Ewing said.
“This included summer clothing, liquor, outdoor dining, hardware, gardening items, camping goods and outdoor equipment.”
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The slight increase followed growth of 0.1 per cent in July and 0.5 per cent in June.
Among retailers, department stores saw the largest rise at 1.6 per cent.
Footwear, clothing and personal accessory shops followed closely behind with an increase of 1.5 per cent.
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Ewing said Father’s Day spending boosted retail spending throughout August too.
Meanwhile, cafes, restaurants and takeaway services saw a rise of 1.0 per cent and food retailing remained steady at 0.6 per cent.
“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,” Ewing added.
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