The inflation was above the reference value throughout the entire period reviewed, but shows a downtrend in the last years. At the end of 2002, Slovakia's HICP exceeded the reference value of 2.9% by a mere 0.4%. However, massive price deregulations implemented in 2003 leaded to a substantial increase in inflation, which currently exceeds 8%.
But I think many Australians have an innate understanding of the concept and share the concern.