Surge in Annual Transport Costs Places Strain on Australian Households

The surge in expenses is adding pressure to household budgets, prompting concerns about the financial impact on families.

Volkswagen cars are parked in the forecourt of a inner city Volkswagen dealership in Sydney, Australia, on March 12, 2017. William West/AFP via Getty Images

Transport costs have surged by over $1,000 (US$672) annually in some Australian cities, averaging over $24,000 (US$16,126) and stressing household budgets.

The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) reported a 4 percent increase in transportation costs over the past three months, exceeding triple the consumer price index.