Reduced cautiousness about COVID cases in February led to a boost in retail spending, the Australian Bureau of Statistics has revealed.
The ABS reported that discretionary segments experienced strong rises in February as a result of the waning COVID fear.
As such, the clothing, footwear and accessories segment witnessed a 11.2% rise ($282.6 million) in February.
Similarly, the department store industry also rose, recording a 11.1% increase (175.9 million) in the month.
ABS director of quarterly economy wide statistics Ben James said February’s result saw retail sales reach their second highest level on record after November 2021.
"Lower COVID-19 case numbers in February, alongside the further easing of restrictions over the month, saw consumer spending return to similar behaviour seen previously as states and territories come out of a COVID-19 wave.
"Most discretionary spending industries experienced strong rises once again as consumer cautiousness lessened, leading to an increase in mobility and improved business conditions.
"On the other hand, non-discretionary industries, such as Food retailing, saw their turnover contract this month," he said.
With no lockdowns in place and restrictions easing, most states and territories saw a rise in retail sales in February, with New South Wales experiencing the largest rise, up 3.9% followed by Victoria (1.7%) and Queensland (1.5%).
Overall, Australian retail turnover rose 1.8% in February and 9.1% compared to February 2021.