Base sedan models started at approximately $2,900–$3,000. During the HD Holden run, pre decimal currency ($AUD), the dollars and cents we use today was introduced.
The HD featured larger, more squared-off body styling, improved suspension, more interior space, and minor mechanical refinements over the EH
It continued to be a practical, reliable family car, popular with suburban families and professionals
Average wage
Average weekly wage: about $35–$38
Average annual wage: roughly $1,820–$1,976
Average house price
Around $8,000–$8,500
Price of petrol
About 6–7 cents per litre
Prime Minister
Robert Menzies (Liberal Party)
Population of Australia
About 11.3 million people
Top-grossing movie
Thunderball, The Sound of Music
Top song
Wooly Bully by Sam the Sham & the Pharaohs topped Australian charts
Significant world event
Vietnam War escalated, affecting Australian politics and society
Global cultural change began influencing fashion, music, and consumer trends
Popular TV / radio in Australia
Shows included Skippy the Bush Kangaroo (early production), Bandstand, and local news
FM radio began emerging, alongside established AM stations
Significant Australian news story
Suburban expansion, industrial growth, and increasing car ownership dominated headlines
The HD Holden reflected consumer demand for larger, more comfortable, and stylish family cars
Interesting comparisons
The HD Holden cost roughly 1.5 years’ average wages, slightly more premium than the EH
The average house cost about 4.5–5 years’ wages
Filling a ~40L tank cost roughly $2.80–$3
A week’s wages could buy roughly 500–520 litres of petrol
