Rising costs outpacing income growth pose challenges for Australians.
Debt burden from Hex system contradicts original purpose, creating financial strain for graduates.
Deep dives
Economic Health Check with Greg Jericho
Unemployment levels in Australia are currently at 3.8%, a surprisingly low rate. Inflation stands at 3.6%, showing a slower increase compared to previous years. Despite this, the overall state of the economy, as indicated by the GDP figures, is not performing well. Rising costs of essential items like rental prices are outpacing income growth, leading to challenges for many Australians.
Challenges Facing Young Australians in Economic System
The podcast delves into the challenges faced by young Australians, particularly regarding the Hex and help debt indexation system. Originally intended as a modest contribution to education costs, the debt burden has significantly increased, causing financial strain for many graduates. The current system, where debt increases faster than income, contradicts its initial purpose, creating financial challenges for recent graduates.
Expectations for Economic Policies and Budget
With the upcoming federal budget, tough decisions are anticipated to address the slowing economy and rising inflation. Stimulus payments are unlikely due to concerns of exacerbating inflation in a tight labor market. Suggestions include subsidizing costs to alleviate financial burdens and potentially reforming Hex indexation to mitigate the debt burden on young Australians. The political landscape and upcoming election add complexity to policy decisions.
With the federal budget just over two weeks away, the economy is set to come roaring back into focus on your newsfeed. So, we thought we'd get you up to speed well in advance. How are we going with inflation and the cost of living? What should you expect from HECS and HELP debt indexation this year? And what early clues do we have about this year's budget?
Today on the podcast, we speak to the Australia Institute and the Centre for Future Work’s Chief Economist, Greg Jericho, to take a temperature check of the economy.
Hosts: Zara Seidler and Sam Koslowski Guest: Greg Jericho, Chief Economist at the Australia Institute and the Centre for Future Work Audio producer: Emmeline Peterson