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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Higher interest rates increasingly likely on Melbourne Cup Day
The Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research expects the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to increase the cash rate to 4.85 per cent on Melbourne Cup Day (3 November), marking the fifth increase for 2026.
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Monthly inflation rose in September
The Melbourne Institute Monthly Inflation Gauge increased for a fourth consecutive month in October, after falling in May and June.
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Children who grow up in poverty are 5 times more likely to be poor young adults: new study
Our research, recently published in The Economic Record, suggests childhood poverty casts a long shadow, affecting young Australians well into their 20s and 30s.
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The 2026 Melbourne Macro Policy Meeting
The 2026 Melbourne Macro Policy Meeting was successfully held on October 26 and 27, co-hosted by the Department of Economics and the Melbourne Institute of Applied Economics and Social Research.
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Exempting pensioners from private health rebate changes won’t make it fairer. Here’s what would
The government wants to take the savings from the rebate changes and increase funding for aged care. The case for doing so is sound. But if concessions are made, they should target those on low incomes, regardless of age.
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Eight University of Melbourne academics elected to the Academy of the Social Sciences
Professor Yuting Zhang is one of eight University of Melbourne academics elected to the Academy of the Social Sciences. She will join several other colleagues from the Melbourne Institute who have previously been awarded this prestigious honour.
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Australia found to currently be in a per capita recession
A GDP per capita recession is less severe than a conventional recession; for example, associated increases in the unemployment rate are likely to be smaller.
