Economists have consistently pointed out that a significant portion of Australia’s wealth is concentrated in the real estate sector, highlighting one of Australia’s economic challenges. This situation has worsened due to ineffective policies, a shortage of construction, and high rates of immigration, which have compounded the pressure on an already scarce housing supply.

Research conducted last year by the think tank Per Capita revealed that only about one in four Australians who don’t currently own property anticipate being able to afford it in the future. “This wouldn’t be a major issue if we had a solid rental market,” commented Hutley, “but unfortunately, our rental laws are quite poor.”

Compared to other affluent countries, Australian tenants enjoy fewer rights. While the specifics can vary from state to state, generally, landlords face minimal restrictions on rent increases; tenants are subjected to frequent home inspections; and the government grants substantial tax benefits to landlords.

Furthermore, a rental shortage has driven up rents significantly in certain areas, compelling younger individuals and families to move increasingly further from urban centers. A recent study highlighted the risk this poses to Sydney, suggesting it could become a “city with no grandchildren” due to the departure of young families.

Australia’s Economic Challenges

Australia is currently grappling with several significant economic challenges that are impacting its stability and driving up costs. These challenges include slowing economic growth, rising inflation, labor shortages, and supply chain disruptions, compounded by global economic pressures.

Slowing Economic Growth and Inflation: Australia’s economic challenges output growth has decelerated due to higher interest rates and inflation pressures. Despite initial strong performance post-pandemic, there has been a notable slowdown in domestic demand and net exports. This deceleration is marked by falling productivity alongside rising wages, which complicates the economic outlook​ (KPMG)​. Moreover, global inflation risks, although potentially peaking, still pose significant challenges for monetary policy tightening​ (KPMG)​.

Labor Shortages: The labor market is unusually tight, with unemployment rates being historically low but accompanied by significant hiring difficulties across businesses. This has been partly due to a decline in migration which has reduced the labor supply, creating vacancies that match the number of unemployed individuals. Many businesses report being unable to secure sufficient staff due to a basic lack of applicants and a mismatch in skills required​.

Supply Chain Disruptions: Australia has faced severe supply chain disruptions, a situation exacerbated by its geographic isolation. These disruptions are reflected in high costs and difficulties in securing necessary goods for business operations. These challenges are particularly acute in the retail and manufacturing sectors​ (Australian Industry Group)​.

Interest Rate Increases: To combat rising inflation, which spiked following global crises like the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the central bank has aggressively raised interest rates. This necessary action, however, has further strained the economy, dampening consumer confidence and spending.

Global Economic Context: The Australian economy is influenced by global economic trends, including declining trade volumes and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which have led to reduced fiscal space for expansionary policies​ (KPMG)​.

On a recent Monday morning, a group of people gathered outside a church in Richmond, a suburb of Melbourne, waiting for the food bank to open. The food bank supports over 100 families, and according to Francis Flood, the coordinator, there has been a significant rise in demand over the last six months.

“We’re seeing many employed individuals who still struggle to get by until the end of the month,” he remarked. “We assist people who, outwardly, you wouldn’t expect to need a food bank.”

Among those facing difficulties are homeowners like Tracey Shepherd, a 60-year-old resident of Surfers Paradise in Queensland, who lives near the beach. A former government worker, Shepherd battles health issues that complicate her job search, and she currently relies on her retirement funds as she waits for a disability benefit decision.

The soaring costs of groceries and increasing maintenance fees for her apartment have made her financial situation unstable. “We used to be called the lucky country when I was younger,” she commented. “It doesn’t feel that way anymore.”