Australian consumer sentiment dips
Thursday, 14 June 2007
SYDNEY, June 13 (AFP): Australian consumer sentiment fell two per cent in June from record levels as petrol prices surged, according to a monthly survey released today.
The Westpac-Melbourne Institute consumer sentiment index was 121.5 points in June, down from a record 123.9 the previous month.
Westpac chief economist Bill Evans said the dip was not surprising after the index surged 7.5 per cent in May following a federal budget that included generous tax breaks.
Evans said consumers remained optimistic despite the slight fall, pointing out that the index was up 17 per cent year-on-year.
The Westpac-Melbourne Institute consumer sentiment index was 121.5 points in June, down from a record 123.9 the previous month.
Westpac chief economist Bill Evans said the dip was not surprising after the index surged 7.5 per cent in May following a federal budget that included generous tax breaks.
Evans said consumers remained optimistic despite the slight fall, pointing out that the index was up 17 per cent year-on-year.