Cost of a new HQ
- HQ Holden sedan: approximately $4,900–$5,100
- HQ Statesman luxury model: approximately $6,200–$6,500
- The HQ Statesman was the first Statesman that Holden built. It was built on a longer wheelbase than the rest of the HQ line up.
- The HQ featured all-new body design with more modern styling, larger dimensions, improved suspension, and updated interiors
- The Statesman offered luxury features, better trim, automatic transmission options, and comfort-oriented upgrades
- These cars catered to families, professionals, and executives looking for style, space, and reliability
- The HQ Holden was the first large car built by Holden. All previous models up to this point had been classed as ‘mid size’ despite being aimed at Australian families.
- The HQ Holden was exactly what the market was after and it sold in large numbers. It would become one of the top selling Holdens of all time and arguably the most recognisable.
Average wage
- Average weekly wage: about $80–$85
- Average annual wage: roughly $4,160–$4,420
Average house price
- Around $16,000–$17,000
Price of petrol
- About 14 cents per litre
Prime Minister
- William McMahon (Liberal Party)
Population of Australia
- About 13.3 million people
Top-grossing movie
- A Clockwork Orange, The French Connection
Top song
- My Sweet Lord by George Harrison topped Australian charts
Significant world event
- Vietnam War protests and social movements influenced Australian society
- Global environmental awareness and cultural change were emerging
Popular TV / radio in Australia
- Skippy the Bush Kangaroo, Homicide, Bandstand, and variety shows remained popular
- FM radio continued to grow, shaping youth music culture
Significant Australian news story
- Industrial growth, suburban expansion, and increasing car ownership dominated headlines
- The HQ Holden and HQ Statesman reflected Australia’s demand for larger, more modern family and luxury cars
Interesting comparisons
- The HQ Holden cost roughly 1.3–1.4 years’ average wages, while the HQ Statesman cost 1.5–1.6 years’ wages
- The average house cost about 4–4.5 years’ wages
- Filling a ~50L tank cost roughly $7
- A week’s wages could buy roughly 570–600 litres of petrol