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Next: When the FE Holden was released
Cost of a new FJ
- Base sedan models started at approximately £1,095–£1,150 (≈ $2,190–$2,300 AUD equivalent)
- The FJ featured restyled bodywork, a more powerful 6-cylinder engine, improved suspension, and updated interiors
- The FJ Holden would be the second Holden model released after the original 48-215 Holden was released in 1948. It was a basic upgrade and would go on to become one of the most iconic Holden models ever produced.
- It became an icon of 1950s Australia, appealing to families, tradespeople, and the growing suburban market
Average wage
- Average weekly wage: about £15–£16 (≈ $30–$32 AUD)
- Average annual wage: roughly £780–£832 (≈ $1,560–$1,664 AUD)
Average house price
- Around £2,500–£2,800 (≈ $5,000–$5,600 AUD)
Price of petrol
- About 3d per gallon (≈ $0.06 AUD per litre equivalent)
Prime Minister
- Robert Menzies (Liberal Party)
Population of Australia
- About 8.6 million people
Top-grossing movie
- Peter Pan, From Here to Eternity
Top song
- How High the Moon by Les Paul and Mary Ford topped Australian charts
Significant world event
- Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II; post-war recovery and industrial growth continued
- Australia was expanding manufacturing and suburban development
Popular TV / radio in Australia
- Television was still a few years away (1956 launch)
- Radio remained dominant: ABC and commercial stations shaped music, news, and entertainment
Significant Australian news story
- Suburban housing expansion and the rise of car culture dominated headlines
- The FJ Holden cemented Australia’s love for locally-made, stylish, and practical cars
Interesting comparisons
- The FJ Holden cost roughly 1.5–1.6 years’ average wages, making it more substantial than the original 48-215
- The average house cost about 3–3.5 years’ wages
- Filling a ~40L tank cost only a few cents, reflecting cheap post-war fuel
- A week’s wages could buy roughly 500–550 litres of petrol
- The FJ Holden became a symbol of 1950s prosperity, style, and suburban family life