Groceries have become more expensive across Australia’s major supermarket chains, with the average price of a basic basket of essential items rising by 7% between March and June 2026, according to a recent survey conducted by the consumer advocacy group Choice.
The survey, the tenth quarterly report funded by the Albanese government as part of its cost-of-living measures, involved pricing eight common grocery products—milk, royal gala apples, strawberries, bananas, potatoes, avocado, basmati rice, and beef mince—at 104 stores nationwide in June. The average total cost of this basket increased by $2.79, from $40.83 in March to $43.62 in June.
Strawberries accounted for roughly half of the overall price increase, rising 37% from $4.68 to $6.41 during the three-month period. Other items such as beef mince, milk, and avocados also saw price increases, while apples and basmati rice recorded modest price declines.
Among the supermarket chains surveyed, IGA experienced the largest increase in grocery costs, with the basket’s average price climbing 11% from $45.42 in March to $50.42 in June. Aldi followed with an 8% rise, though its basket remained the most affordable, increasing from $37.14 to $40.10. Coles reported a 6% increase, with prices moving from $40.10 to $42.54, while Woolworths saw the smallest increase, up 2% from $40.08 to $40.95.
Choice also examined a “spotlight basket” featuring 10 healthier items, including baby spinach, broccoli, carrots, chicken breast, and Greek-style yoghurt. Aldi once again offered the most competitive pricing for this basket at $28.79, followed by Woolworths at $33.52 and Coles at $34.25. IGA’s basket was the highest priced at $42.27.
Representatives from the supermarkets responded to the findings highlighting differing perspectives. An Aldi spokesperson emphasised the company’s commitment to maintaining its position as Australia’s best value supermarket, focusing on affordability and helping consumers stretch their budgets. Coles stated that most of its products had either remained steady in price or become cheaper over the surveyed period, pledging to continue delivering value, quality, and convenience. IGA noted the difficulty in commenting fully without access to the complete survey methodology but maintained that many of its stores remain highly competitive, often matching or undercutting major chains. Woolworths acknowledged the financial pressures on households and affirmed its dedication to offering dependable low prices through a variety of promotions.
The survey comes amid continued inflation concerns in Australia, with the consumer price index rising 0.6% in the March to June quarter. Food categories experienced price increases surpassing the overall inflation rate, a factor that the Reserve Bank of Australia is reportedly considering as it prepares for a potential fourth interest rate hike in 2026.
New legislation targeting price gouging took effect from July 1, and the next two Choice reports, also government-funded, will be the first to assess the impact of these laws on supermarket pricing ahead.