Our dollar sweet

Howard Bellin

Your article about the rising Australian dollar (February 18) as it affects the cost of living between other countries and Australia should also consider comparisons (using the United States as an example).

The average wage in Australia, according to the Bureau of Census, is $64,641 a year (2011 figures). In the US, again according to the Census, it is $US42,673 (2010 figures). At an exchange of $1.07, the average Australian makes about $26,000 more than the average American.

The minimum wage in Australia is $15.51 an hour; in the US it is about $US7.50 an hour or $7 an hour depending on the state. Also, wage inequality in the US is far greater than in Australia. And, where would most readers rather live, Australia or another country?

Howard BellinBrighton Vic

The Australian Financial Review