Coles Grocery Prices Jump 6% in Three Months as Inflation Bites

Grocery prices at Coles have jumped 6% in three months, according to consumer advocacy group Choice’s latest supermarket survey released on September 24. The base basket of eight common items, including milk, apples, strawberries, potatoes, avocado, basmati rice, bananas and beef mince, now costs $43.62 on average across all four major chains, up $2.79 from March. Strawberries drove much of the increase, jumping 37% to $6.41.

Which supermarket is cheapest right now

Aldi remains Australia’s most affordable supermarket, with its base basket totalling $40.10 in June, according to Choice’s latest survey of 104 stores. Coles came in third at $43.62, behind Woolworths at $43.75. IGA was the most expensive at $50.42. For health-conscious shoppers, Aldi’s healthy basket cost $28.79, compared to Coles at $34.25 and IGA at $42.27.

Price rises hit all four chains

IGA recorded the steepest increase at 11%, followed by Aldi at 8%, Coles at 6%, and Woolworths at 2%. Choice’s survey of 104 stores found that strawberries alone accounted for about half the overall 7% rise across all retailers. Milk, mince and avocados also cost more, while apples and basmati rice fell in price.

Household budgets under pressure

Eighty-two percent of Australians told Choice in June that grocery costs are a major pressure on household budgets, down from 88% in March. Choice CEO Monique Perry noted that despite falling concern levels, shoppers are still paying more for basic items. The Reserve Bank is expected to deliver its fourth interest rate hike of 2026 next week in an attempt to control inflation.

Coles responds with smaller portions

Coles has begun rolling out half and quarter roast chicken cuts to address demand for smaller, single-serve options. A whole roast chicken costs $13, while a half chicken is priced at $7, representing a 50-cent premium for convenience. The original RSPCA Approved Hot Roast Chicken remains Coles’ second highest-selling product, with over 20 million units sold last year. These smaller cuts are currently limited and not stocked across every store.

Final Thoughts

With grocery inflation outpacing the broader economy, Coles shoppers face tighter household budgets. Aldi remains the cheapest option, but all four major chains have raised prices significantly since March, leaving limited relief for cost-conscious consumers.

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