OECD Warns of Sluggish Australian Economic Growth Amid Global Trade Concerns

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.

Global economic growth is similarly anticipated to decelerate. OECD forecasts a reduction in growth from 3.2% in 2024 to 3.0% in 2026, attributing this trend to increased trade barriers among major economies and broader geopolitical tensions. The report specifically highlights that continued changes in trade policies, if maintained, could dampen global growth prospects and heighten inflationary pressures.

The potential slowdown has significant implications for both consumers and businesses within Australia. If growth rates dwindle, this could affect employment, wages, and investment levels across the country. Additionally, as higher trade barriers threaten global trade volumes, Australian exporters may face shrinking markets abroad, potentially putting additional pressure on domestic economic growth.

The report indicates that inflation, while expected to moderate gradually, could still surpass targets set by central banks, including the Reserve Bank of Australia. This poses a challenge for policymakers aiming to balance growth with inflation control. RBA Governor Michele Bullock emphasized the need to be vigilant against any resurgence of inflationary pressures in Australia.

: Experts suggest keeping a close eye on international trade developments, particularly the bilateral tariffs between major economies such as the US, Canada, and Mexico. If these tariffs were to be rolled back or applied more narrowly, it could lead to a more favourable growth and inflation outlook globally and in Australia.

The Reserve Bank of Australia has room to manoeuvre, given the current trajectory of moderating inflation. There’s potential for further interest rate reductions, which could stimulate domestic consumption and investment. Nevertheless, the caution remains as trade policy uncertainties continue to cast a long shadow over Australia’s economic future.

As policymakers navigate these challenging waters, strategic economic management will be crucial in cushioning Australia from external shocks and ensuring a steady growth trajectory amid a complex global landscape.

Published:Tuesday, 18th Mar 2025
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Finance News

Clear

Rising Rents Are Making the First-Home Deposit Race Tougher

19 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori

Fresh rental market commentary points to an uncomfortable reality for many aspiring first-home buyers: even when property price growth slows, high rents can still make the path to ownership feel harder. For Australians renting while saving a deposit, every rent rise can reduce the amount left over for savings, moving costs, upfront buying expenses and loan application preparation. - read more

Why Mortgage Stress Headlines Matter Before You Apply

19 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent property and finance reporting has again highlighted pressure on Australian mortgage holders, with higher repayments, insurance costs, council rates and everyday bills leaving some households with less room to move. For first-home buyers, the main lesson is not that buying is out of reach. It is that preparation matters more when lenders and borrowers are both watching affordability closely. - read more

Volkswagen ID.4 Pure Gives Family EV Buyers a New Budget Checkpoint

19 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori

Volkswagen Australia’s latest ID.4 update gives electric SUV shoppers another important reference point as the market moves from early-adopter pricing towards more practical family budgets. The arrival of the more affordable ID.4 Pure variant places Volkswagen more directly into the finance conversation for buyers who may have liked the brand’s EV credentials, but previously found the numbers difficult to justify against Korean, Chinese and Tesla alternatives. - read more

BYD Atto 2 Adds New Pressure to the Affordable EV Race

19 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori

Australia’s affordable EV market is becoming more competitive, and BYD’s smaller Atto 2 is shaping as another model that could put pressure on both new-car pricing and buyer expectations. While local specifications and pricing still need to be treated carefully until confirmed, the broader story is clear: compact electric SUVs are moving from niche alternatives into serious budget-conscious family and commuter options. - read more

Why Choppy Funding Markets Matter for Boat Buyers

18 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori

After the earlier easing in government bond yields, Australian funding markets have become more two-way as investors weigh inflation risks, global rate expectations and the Reserve Bank's next move. For boat buyers, the message is not that loan rates will move immediately in one direction. It is that the cost of money remains sensitive, and lenders are likely to keep a close eye on wholesale funding conditions when pricing marine finance. - read more

Click for more Finance News