Household health spending rises 1.5% in September in Australia

Household spending in Australia increased by 0.6% in September 2026, according to seasonally adjusted data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). This followed a slight decline in August and a rise in July, showing a continued trend of growth in household expenditures.

The ABS reported that spending rose across both essential and discretionary categories, with health and transport each increasing by 1.5%. Specifically, health spending growth was attributed to higher outlays on general practitioner visits, dental and optometric services, as well as pharmaceutical and toiletry products.

ABS head of business statistics Tom Lay noted that the late flu season likely contributed to the increased demand for GP consultations and medicines, driving the rise in health-related spending.

Transport spending also increased due to higher costs for fuel, vehicle repairs, maintenance, and domestic air travel, linked to attendance at major sporting events. Fuel spending rose 5.4%, influenced by higher global oil prices and the end of fuel excise relief earlier in August.

Overall, household spending volumes have grown for four consecutive quarters, with seven out of nine spending categories showing increases. Transport recorded the strongest growth for the quarter, supporting the upward trend in household expenditures.