Average Australian spends 6,000 AUD on health, beauty in 2012

Australians are spending a significant amount of money on health, beauty and fitness - an average of more than 6,000 AU dollars (5494 U.S. dollars) a year, according to a study released on Thursday by the Commonwealth Bank.

The bank's analysis of debit and credit card transactions revealed that Australians spent 2.23 billion AU dollars on health and beauty in 2012.

The study found the amount of money spent on gyms by Australians increased by 49 percent since 2009, but the average spending per person has decreased by 12 percent.

Commonwealth Bank economist Diana Mousina said consumers were being offered more choices and the opportunity to take advantage of better deals.

The study found Australians also spent more money on cosmetic products between 2009 and 2012.

Spending in cosmetic stores has increased by 39 percent since 2009, but the average spending per customer fell by 21 percent.