IMF noted in a report that Australia’s recent strong growth is expected to “continue in the near term”. Also, “further reducing slack in the economy and leading the way to gradual upward pressure on wages and prices.” In particular, “private consumption growth is anticipated to remain buoyant, supported by strong employment gains.” Also, “rebound in non-mining private business investment and further growth in public investment is envisaged to offset a softening in dwelling investment.”
However, balance of risks is “tilted to the downside” with a “less favorable global risk picture”. IMF noted “weaker-than-expected near-term outlook in China coupled with further rising global protectionism and trade tensions could delay full closure of the output gap”. Also, “sharp tightening of global financial conditions could spill over into domestic financial markets, raising funding costs and lowering disposable income of debtors, with the impact also depending on the response of the Australian dollar”.
Also, “domestic demand may equally turn out weaker if wage growth remained subdued or investment spillovers were smaller.” Housing market downturn is “another source of risk”. But under the baseline outlook, the housing correction “remains orderly”. But negative risk developments could “amplify the correction and lower domestic demand.”
