The data presented this week highlights the current mismatch in the labour market and the rising cost of living. When considered holistically the high-level inflationary pressure is eliminating any real growth presented by the rise in the wage price index and the reported average weekly earnings. As interest rates continue to rise in order to combat inflation households will face increasing pricing pressure.
The Consumer Price Index data was released this week, recording the largest annual rise in inflation since the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax in 2000.
With another jump in inflation expected to be reported this week, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is justifying their rapid rate rise trajectory. But how will businesses and households respond?