The table below illustrates data about the amount of money spent monthly by an average Australian family in 1991 and 2001.
Overall, the figure of monthly expenditures for electricity and water experienced growth, contributing considerably to the total amount, whereas the reverse trend was witnessed in the case of clothing. The category of other goods and services stood out among all others.
Regarding the details, all-time dominance belonged to other goods and services, with $250 spent per month in the initial year. This was followed by food at $155. Other cases were relatively low: $95 for housing, $75 for electricity and water, $70 for transport, and a tiny index of $30 for clothing. The amount of spending on non-essential goods and services, electricity, and water rose by 20 and 45 in order until 2001. The negligible $5 rise was in the case of food and housing. In contrast, the figures of monthly expenditure for clothing and transport decreased by 10 and 25, respectively. However, the total amount increased significantly from $675 in 1991 to $715 in 2001.
