Economists say an increase in the level of credit card debt suggests either consumers are finding it hard to make ends meet or there's been some thawing of consumer conservatism.
The average credit card balance stood at $3,248.60 in May, up $14.60 on the previous month.
The average credit card balance is now 5 per cent higher on a year ago - the fastest rate in two years.
CommSec chief economist Craig James said the increased debt level represents a subtle shift in consumer land.
"Consumers are keeping a little more debt outstanding on their credit cards - nothing substantial, but average balances are edging higher," he said.
He said it was difficult to work out what the shift from debit card to credit card use meant.
The number of purchases made on credit cards rose by 6.3 per cent in May after falling by 11.5 per cent in April.
The number of credit card purchases was up 10.5 per cent on a year earlier.
"Consumers may be using credit cards again because they are finding it hard to make ends meet ... but it may also signal some thawing in the conservative behaviour that consumers have been displaying over the past year or so," said Mr James.
"On balance it looks like a combination of both."
