# Australian consumer spending trends

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/australian-consumer-spending-trends
> Updated: 2026-09-04T01:53:08.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 3.

Australian consumer spending trends have shown resilience despite cost-of-living pressures. During the summer 2025/26 season, total spending reached $175 billion, a $9 billion increase from the previous year. Discretionary spending accounted for $91 billion, driven largely by a 30 percent rise in theme park visits and long-distance road trips. Other major contributors included $9.5 billion during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and $2.8 billion from the Australian Open.

Specific seasonal events have also driven significant activity. Father’s Day 2025 spending exceeded $656 million, with notable surges in newsagents and book retailers (25.8 percent), takeaway alcohol (19.2 percent), and cafes and restaurants (13.4 percent). 

Looking ahead, research from the Australian Retail Council and Roy Morgan projects Father’s Day spending to reach approximately $730 million, a 1.4 percent increase over the previous year. While the number of shoppers is expected to rise to 5.5 million people, the average intended spend per person is projected to decline by 6.9 percent, from $145 to $135. Fleur Brown, ARC chief industry engagement officer, noted that while more Australians plan to purchase gifts, the decrease in individual budgets suggests consumers are “prioritizing value due to ongoing pressure on household finances.”

## Timeline

### 2026-09-04: Australia Father’s Day spending projected to reach $730 million

Australian Father’s Day spending is forecast to reach $730 million. While more people plan to shop, average individual budgets have dropped to $135 as consumers prioritize value amid financial pressure.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/australia-fathers-day-spending-projected-to-reach-730-million

### 2026-09-01: Australia consumer spending reaches $175 billion in summer season

Australian consumer spending remains resilient, with summer 2025/26 totals reaching $175 billion and Father’s Day driving over $656 million in retail and hospitality activity.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/australia-consumer-spending-reaches-175-billion-in-summer-season

### 2026-08-12: Retail trends show shifting Father's Day spending in Australia and the US

Father's Day retail trends show a shift toward premium spending in Australia despite lower participation, while U.S. spending is projected to reach a record $27.9 billion.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/retail-trends-show-shifting-fathers-day-spending-in-australia-and-the-us

---
Cite as: Australian consumer spending trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/australian-consumer-spending-trends