Consumers Price Index: December 2008 quarter

In the December 2008 quarter compared with the September 2008 quarter:

• The Consumers Price Index (CPI) fell 0.5 percent.
• Transport prices fell 7.6 percent, reflecting lower petrol and diesel prices.
• Food prices rose 1.5 percent, with the main contribution coming from higher prices for meat, poultry and fish.
• Housing and household utilities prices rose 0.6 percent, driven by higher prices for electricity.
• Recreation and culture prices rose 1.5 percent, driven by higher prices for overseas package holidays.

From the December 2007 quarter to the December 2008 quarter:

• The CPI increased 3.4 percent.