Spending takes a hit as household budgets stretched

After an Easter boost, consumer spending dropped in April with the weakness tipped to continue. (Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS)

Australians snapped their wallets shut after Easter, piling more pressure on a retail sector that has been struggling more than other parts of the economy.

Throughout April, spending fell sharply due to consumers forking out less on nice-to-haves, including meals out and recreation.