Inflation is rising around the world, the sting in the tail of the pandemic economic stimulus packages unleashed by governments in 2020. This analysis paper examines the implications for prices and wages growth in Australia.

Building on research and analysis published by Grattan Institute since it was founded 13 years ago, this report identifies reforms to boost incomes, improve health and education, create better transport links, make housing more affordable, generate meaningful progress on climate change, and strengthen Australia’s political institutions.

The research in this report reveals that garment workers in Bangladesh and Cambodia – two prominent garment producing countries for the Australian market – are not earning enough to cover basic living costs for their families during COVID-19.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been challenging - with young people particularly affected. For policy-makers to get to grips with what appears to be a cost of living crisis for young people, this report recommends that the UK government makes tackling this issue an urgent priority.

Like all state governments, the South Australian government provides concessions for people living on very low incomes and struggling with affordability of essential services. This review of the concessions system in South Australia highlights how the complex patchwork created poverty premiums and barriers to accessing concessions support.