Peter Martin, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University
The Conversation’s 2020 economic survey points to a dismal year, with no progress on many of the key measures that matter for Australians and an increase in the unemployment rate.
The economy is weak, but it isn’t a crisis. Treasury Secretary Steven Kennedy addresses Senators on Wednesday.
Mick Tsikas/AAP
Evidence for the prime minister’s contention that the banks are “profiteering” is thin on the ground.
Reserve Bank Deputy Governor Guy Debelle, Governor Philip Lowe, and assistant governors Luci Ellis and Michele Bullock at Friday’s parliamentary hearing in Canberra.
Lukas Coch/AAP
By himself, Reserve Bank Governor Philip Lowe may not be able to keep us out of recession.
As uncertain as 2019-20 is, The Conversation’s team of 20 leading economists are in broad agreement that the outlook isn’t good. Scott Morrison and Treasurer Josh Frydenberg will also have to deal with the unexpected.
Wes Mountain/The Conversation
Peter Martin, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University
The Conversation’s distinguished panel predicts unusually weak growth, dismal spending, no improvement in either unemployment or wage growth, and an increased chance of recession.
We can’t rely on consumer spending to keep us recession-free.
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The Reserve Bank’s inflation target seems out of date in a world of ultra low inflation. So why is Governor Lowe persisting with it?
Things will continue to look good enough for long enough to help the government fight the election. Beyond that, the Conversation Economic Panel is worried.
Wes Mountain/The Conversation
Peter Martin, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University
The Conversation has assembled a forecasting team of 19 academic economists from 12 universities across six states. Together, they assign a 25% probability to a recession within two years.
Reserve Bank of Australia governor Philip Lowe addressing a forum on wages and productivity.
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While the RBA might not be able to influence the current cash rate, it can still influence longer-term rates by offering guidance about its future policy decisions.
Construction of apartments will be a key thing to watch in 2018.
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Principal Research Fellow, Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, and Professor of Economics, Department of Economics, The University of Melbourne