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 September, primarily influenced by higher recreation and transport related prices. The monthly cost of living also rose. Annual headline inflation lies at the top-end of the 2-3 per cent target band.
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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.
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For those serious about boosting productivity
When productivity is mentioned, most discussion centres around lowering taxes or changing the tax mix. History suggests, however, that floating the dollar, lowering tariffs and the Hilmer National Competition Policy (NCP) reforms had the biggest impact on Australia's productivity revolution from the 1990s to mid-2000s which saw productivity growth average over 2 per cent per annum.
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Emitters should pay the price of energy transition; not consumers
What should we make of last Thursday’s announcement by Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen of Australia’s target for emissions reduction and the pathways to achieve this?
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Manufacturing is about quality and robots – not cheap wages
It is a myth that manufacturing can only thrive in low wage environments.
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Fewer friends, more time stress: the essential charts from this year’s HILDA survey
So, what are the highlights from the 2025 report? The Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey, released today, reveals trends on a wide range of aspects of life in Australia, including household relationships, income, health and wellbeing.
