The Australian retail sector witnessed an uptick in November 2024, with the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reporting a seasonally adjusted increase of 0.8% in turnover.  

The rise follows consecutive growth of 0.5% and 0.4% in October and September.

ABS business statistics head Robert Ewing stated: “Black Friday sales events proved once again to be a big hit, with widespread discounting and higher spending across all retail industries. 

"The popularity of Black Friday sales continues to grow with promotional activity now stretching across the entire month of November, not just solely focused on the Black Friday weekend.”  

The ABS data revealed gains across all retail industries during this period. Non-food-related sectors saw significant movements, with department stores experiencing a 1.8% increase in turnover.  

Clothing, footwear and personal accessory retailing grew by 1.6%, household goods by 0.6% and other retailing by 0.3%.  

"Consumers have taken advantage of Black Friday sales once again, with discounting seen across clothing items, furniture, electrical goods and cosmetics," Robert Ewing added. 

Food-related industries also benefited from the November spending spree. Cafés, restaurants and takeaway food services enjoyed a 1.5% rise, marking their fourth consecutive monthly increase. 

Food retail saw more modest growth of 0.5%.  

The momentum was felt nationwide with all states and territories reporting increased turnover.  

The Northern Territory led the pack with growth of 1.6%, bouncing back from two months of decline due to seasonal tourism fluctuations and inclement weather.  

Queensland followed with a 1.2% increase, while Victoria and New South Wales saw growths of 0.8% and 0.5% respectively.