OK, so I went on a shopping trip to the city. Verdict is that there are far less suits on sale than there used to be in my middle management heyday

Tried on a couple in Esprit - nice navy pinstripe and a dark purple one. Decided against as I wanted just a regular staple with a black jacket that I could also wear with the dresses I've got. Price there was around $380.

Tried one in Jacqui E - fitted quite nicely but fabric was very thin. Was told it was an all-season suit. Got a bit huffy and told her I live in Woodend and would freeze in it in winter. Price around $300.

Looked at some in Sportscraft. Good quality but $450 price tag too high for a "just in case I have an interview" scenario.

Also looked in Country Road, Trenery, Cue and David Lawrence - really not much of a range.

Went to Target. Scored a suit for $120. I'd say the quality was much better than Jacqui E but below Sportscraft which = value for money.

Later saw some in Basque (Myer) - similar in style/quality to Target but a bit more expensive.

Not the most exciting or nicest suit I've ever bought but at least I have something in my wardrobe that I can wear if I get an interview/internship.