Preliminary estimates for September indicate that the index decreased by 0.1 per cent (on a monthly average basis) in SDR terms, after being unchanged in August (revised). The non-rural subindex increased in the month, while the rural and base metals indices decreased. In Australian dollar terms, the index increased by 2.0 per cent in September.

Over the past year, the index has increased by 4.8 per cent in SDR terms, led by higher LNG, alumina and thermal coal prices. The index has increased by 14.4 per cent in Australian dollar terms.

Consistent with previous releases, preliminary estimates for iron ore, coking coal, thermal coal and LNG export prices are being used for the most recent months, based on market information. Using spot prices for the bulk commodities, the index increased by 2.0 per cent in September in SDR terms, to be 6.7 per cent higher over the past year.