Monthly expenditure of an average Australian family in 1991 and 2001

The table illustrates changes in the monthly spending habits of an average Australian family between 1991 and 2001, measured in Australian dollars.

Overall, the total monthly expenditure for these families rose from 675 to 715 Australian dollars over the ten-year period. While most categories experienced an increase in costs, spending on clothing and transport declined.

In 1991, 'Other goods and services' was the highest expenditure at 250, rising to 270 by 2001. Food costs also saw a slight increase, moving from 155 to 160. The most notable change occurred in electricity and water, which surged from 75 to 120, representing a substantial growth in utility costs. Housing expenses also grew marginally, increasing from 95 to 100.

Conversely, spending on clothing dropped from 30 to 20, marking a one-third reduction. Similarly, transport costs experienced a significant decrease, falling from 70 in 1991 to 45 in 2001. Despite these reductions in specific areas, the overall upward trend in the other categories ensured that the total monthly family budget was higher at the end of the decade than at the beginning.