A sharp escalation in tensions between the United States and Iran has pushed oil prices higher. This policy briefing examines how the current shock compares to previous oil supply disruptions, and how this price shock can spread through Australia’s economy. It also provides early policy actions Australia can take to stabilise fuel supply and support...

This report examines how Australia's care infrastructures, encompassing welfare, housing, food and community support systems are fraying and increasingly failing to meet the basic needs of those on low- or no- income. The report documents the labour-intensive and precarious work required to piece together fragmented supports amid a worsening cost-of-living crisis.

Power bills have become a growing source of stress for Australians. This report finds three key drivers behind Australia's high power prices. It finds expanding renewable energy, storage and transmission lowers long-term costs. The report calls for governments to progress rolling out renewable energy and storage, and ensure the benefits are shared by everyone.

This paper proposes that public debate about the cost of living is based on a misunderstanding of how living standards should be measured. The paper contrasts movements in consumer prices with movements in wages. It identifies sectors where affordability has deteriorated in wage-adjusted terms, arguing that these outcomes are not arbitrary.

Australia is experiencing a housing crisis. A 2025 survey was designed to document the lived experience of people affected by the crisis. This report presents the findings of the survey and the themes that emerge from respondents’ experiences. It shows how housing insecurity intersects with income inadequacy, energy hardship and declining housing quality.