WA tops nation in retail sales

01/12/05
Western Australia has topped the nation when it comes to retail sales, according to the latest ABS figures.
Treasurer Eric Ripper said retail sales in WA rose by 5.6 per cent in the 12 months to October compared to 2.9 per cent nationally.
In other good economic news, the value of completed construction work in WA rose by 11.5 per cent in the September quarter, compared with a national growth rate of just 0.9 per cent.
"The value of engineering construction grew by a whopping 25.9 per cent during the quarter - more than twice that recorded by any other State," Mr Ripper said.
Earlier this month, the ABS reported that new vehicle sales in WA leapt by 10.2 per cent in the 12 months to October compared to a national rise of 4.4 per cent.
Mortgage approvals for owner-occupiers were up 6.4 per cent in the September quarter.
The Treasurer said the figures highlighted continued public confidence in the strength of the WA economy.
"People are investing in new houses, buying new cars and spending more on goods because they know the economy is in good hands," he said.
Minister's office: 9222 8788