Australia's leading applied economic and social research institute
The Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research has worked for over 60 years to advance opportunity, equity, and prosperity in Australia and our region. Our world-class economists conduct rigorous, independent research and analysis, providing an evidence base for effective policy reform. We are a trusted partner for governments, industry, and communities, working to solve the complex challenges of our time.
News
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Monthly Inflation Gauge and Cost of Living report
The Melbourne Institute Monthly Inflation Gauge recorded an increase in monthly inflation for October, primarily influenced by higher recreation and housing related prices. The monthly cost of living also rose. Annual headline inflation as recorded by the Inflation Gauge is slightly above the top-end of the 2-3 per cent target band.
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The necessity for polluter pays
Rod Sims, Enterprise Professor at the Melbourne Institute, has spoken at the Climate Resilience Emergency Forum, Parliament House on the 31st October, 2025.
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Trump tariffs and global market dynamics
The Melbourne Institute, in partnership with the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia, has hosted its latest Flash Forum: Trump tariffs and global market dynamics, which saw academic and industry experts convene to assess current and future economic consequences following President Trump’s new trade policies.
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Revealing the wage gap makes far-right voters much more supportive of redistribution
In a new study, Christopher Hoy reveals that people tend to dramatically underestimate wage inequality. What’s more, when confronted with the actual data, far right voters alter their views about redistribution the most.
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A Master Plan for Australia
Duncan Ironmonger’s article A Master Plan for Australia, published in The Bulletin (1975), is a fascinating look into Australia’s economic history, with themes that still resonate today.
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When a partner has a health shock, our study shows what happens to work, chores and fun
A serious illness or injury to a family member is more than a medical crisis. It’s a health shock that triggers a ripple effect, forcing families to make difficult trade-offs with their time and money.
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Australia’s largest export industry facing existential threat
Distribution of green iron subsidies needs to be strategic otherwise it risks encouraging rent-seekers.
