Cost of a new Ford XY Falcon
- Base sedan models started at approximately $3,700–$4,000
- Deluxe and GT models ranged from $4,200–$5,000 depending on options
Cost of a Ford ZD Fairlane
- Base ZD Fairlane sedan started at around $6,500–$7,000
- Higher-spec models could exceed $8,000, offering luxury features such as air conditioning, power windows, and superior trim.
- The Fairlane remained Ford’s premium luxury offering, targeting executive and family buyers wanting top-tier comfort.
Average wage
- Average weekly wage: about $70–$75 per week
- Average annual wage: about $3,600–$3,900
Average house price
- Around $14,000–$15,000
Price of petrol
- Around 12 cents per litre
Prime Minister
- John Gorton (Liberal Party)
Population of Australia
- About 12.8 million people
Top-grossing movie
- Airport (1970) and MAS*H were major hits worldwide and in Australia.
- Other popular films included Patton and Love Story.
Top song
- Let It Be by The Beatles was a major hit globally and in Australia.
Significant world event
- The Vietnam War was ongoing, with growing anti-war sentiment in Australia.
- Apollo 13 mission (1970) captured global attention.
Popular TV / radio in Australia
- Homicide, Division 4, and Bellbird remained popular.
- Countdown, which launched in 1974, was a few years away, so Bandstand and AM Top‑40 stations dominated music culture.
Significant Australian news story
- Domestic debates over Vietnam conscription and foreign policy continued.
- Australia experienced rising car ownership and suburban growth.
Interesting comparisons
- The XY Falcon cost roughly one year’s average wage, while the ZD Fairlane cost around 1.8–2 years’ average wage
- The average house cost about 4 times annual income
- Filling the ~55L tank in a Falcon cost about $6–$7, while the Fairlane’s larger V8 could push it to $8
- A week’s wages could buy roughly 550–600 litres of petrol