Economic difficulties across the ditch appear to echo the struggles felt in many New Zealand households.
The Reserve Bank of Australia has delivered a brutal reality check to the nation on the cost of living, as it expects the situation to worsen.
It warns prices will never return to pre-pandemic levels.
Infometrics Principal Economist Brad Olsen told Mike Hosking it's the same story here.
He says it would be a sign of very tough economic times if businesses were cutting their prices so drastically.
LISTEN ABOVE

Mark the Week: King Charles' visit was a tour de force by any standard
02:39

Mike's Minute: I like the cut of Anna Breman's gib
01:54

Bob McMurray: Motorsport expert previews the Miami Grand Prix, discusses the regulation tweaks
03:12