The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
As Australia's Reserve Bank grapples with economic challenges, its decisive interest rate hikes have led to a contraction in demand, achieving their intended result but with considerable impact on the private sector.
The private sector, a critical component of the nation's economy, has been particularly hard-hit. Industries such as construction and hospitality have seen a surge in insolvencies over the past two years, reflecting the broader struggle within this sector.
Job creation paints a stark picture of this downturn. Since the first quarter of 2023, only 91,433 jobs have emerged in the market-driven sectors, vastly outnumbered by the rise in the civilian population by 956,000 during the same period.
However, the larger economic narrative reveals a different trend. The overall demand across Australia remains relatively robust, primarily buoyed by the thriving non-market sector, which includes government activities and significant net overseas migration.
This divergence has been highlighted by Alex Joiner from IFM Investors, who notes that the non-market sector has generated 624,574 jobs since Q1 2023. This represents a striking 87% of the country's total job growth and is largely attributed to the expansion of initiatives like the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
The dichotomy extends to GDP growth as well. Public sector spending is the primary driver of Australia's gross domestic product during this period, overshadowing the private sector's stagnation.
Independent economist Tarric Brooker describes the current situation as "burnout economics," where the Reserve Bank's efforts to cool the economy with elevated interest rates are met with increased public spending by government bodies.
Such significant public sector expansion is affecting productivity negatively. Australia's recent performance in labor productivity places it among the lower ranks compared to other advanced economies, raising concerns about long-term economic sustainability.
If evaluating the market sector alone, the RBA might have opted to lower interest rates; however, the overall economic picture necessitates a broader view. The non-market sector's unprecedented growth has counteracted the central bank's measures to temper demand and inflation.
The original analysis, sourced from the Australian Financial Review, fundamentally underscores the conflict between the RBA's intention to control inflation and the government's expansionary fiscal policies, which continue to bolster the non-market sector, leaving the private sector in a recessionary state.
Published:Tuesday, 21st Jan 2025 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
In a significant development for the motorcycle industry, KTM AG has successfully secured €600 million in funding, enabling the company to fulfill its restructuring plan and stabilize its financial position. This funding comes at a crucial time, as KTM faced a severe financial crisis that led to self-administration and a comprehensive restructuring process. - read more
Peter Stevens Motorcycles, a cornerstone of the Australian motorcycle retail industry, has entered voluntary administration, casting uncertainty over the future of the company and its approximately 400 employees. Founded in 1970 by the Chiodo family, the retailer expanded to 15 locations across Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales, and Western Australia, representing major brands such as Harley-Davidson, Ducati, and Triumph. - read more
The Australian motorcycle market experienced a 2.2% decline in sales during the first nine months of 2025, according to data released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI). A total of 63,988 motorcycles were sold between January and September, down from 65,399 units in the same period of 2024. - read more
Buying a motorcycle is an exciting adventure, especially for enthusiasts who have been dreaming of hitting the open road for years. The thrill of finding the perfect bike, imagining all the journeys it will take you on, and finally making it your own can be immensely rewarding. - read more
Embarking on a motorcycle road trip across the breathtaking landscapes of Australia can be an exhilarating experience. The sense of freedom and adventure that comes with cruising on two wheels is unparalleled. However, before the rubber meets the road, it's essential to lay the financial groundwork for your journey. This not only ensures peace of mind but also enables you to enjoy the ride without monetary worries. - read more
The thrill of owning a new bike is unmatched, especially for enthusiasts who dream of hitting the open road with the wind in their hair and a powerful engine beneath them. Bike loans make this dream accessible, offering a structured way to finance your two-wheeled companion without the upfront financial strain. - read more
START HERE
Get a free bike loan eligibility assessment and compare offers tailored
specifically to your circumstances.
Knowledgebase
Debt Consolidation: The process of combining multiple debts into a single loan with a lower interest rate or more favorable terms.
