Economic updates

For the first time ever, there are now almost as many advertised vacant jobs as there are unemployed people and the unemployment rate continues to trend downwards.

Federal Labor introduced legislation last week that, if passed, would give older Australians a two-year exemption from the assets test for downsizing, allowing them more time to sort out their finances and move properties before their pensions are reduced.

Rents are growing at their fastest rate ever recorded but rent control will make things worse

Offshore apartment buyers are on their way back

John Key, the former prime minister of New Zealand last week spoke at Ray White's Connect 2022 conference.

You may have a little bit of luck in Sydney and Melbourne but elsewhere, prestige is still recording price rises.

Last week, June inflation came in at an eye watering 6.1 per cent, driven primarily by sharp rises in fuel prices, construction costs and furniture.

Australia’s median house price increased by 32 per cent from March 2020 to December 2021, making it the fastest period of price growth we have ever experienced.

The COVID-19 pandemic meant many of us were spending more time at home, isolating ourselves from friends and family in our homes.

With the number of seats taken by independents with a “green-focus”, as well as candidates in the green party itself at the May election, it is clear that environment and sustainability are front-of-mind for households.

Australia tops the world for net inflow of millionaires  

Energy prices are on the move and although a crisis of widespread blackouts looks to be averted for now, longer term, having an energy efficient home is going to become increasingly important.