Retail spending was slightly higher for the month of December 2006, with recreational goods coming in as the highest earner, according to the latest ABS results.
Shoppers spent $18.4 billion at retail outlets, which is an increase of 0.3 per cent on the previous month. This follows increases of 0.4% in both November and October 2006.
Food retailing and household good retailing experienced moderate trend growth, while department stores, clothing and hospitality were flat in December. Recreational goods sales have had five months of strong trend growth.