This paper examines the proportion of recruiting employers who reported having difficulty in filling their most recent vacancies, referred to as the ‘recruitment difficulty rate’, and how it affects business performance. Employers who most recently recruited for community and personal service workers were, on average, the most likely to report a negative impact on their...

This pulse survey provides insight into Queensland business sentiment, conditions, and expectations, and reflects the voice of Queensland businesses. In the March quarter, business confidence in the future of the state and national economies, as well as general business conditions, was at its strongest level since 2022 despite weak profitability.

In anticipation of the 2025 federal election this paper argues that delivery of housing for all Australians in cities and regions must be made a national priority. The paper offers a number of proposals to: address skill shortages, remove the barriers to housing supply and establish financial settings to encourage home ownership.

This report highlights key matters raised at the public hearings conducted with Australia’s four major banks. It examines how the major banks are balancing the interests of a diverse set of stakeholders, including borrowers, depositors, shareholders and the wider community. The report finds deep concern about culture and conduct within the banking sector.

A joint initiative of the Australian, state and territory governments, this strategy provides a framework for more effective coordination and collaboration across jurisdictions to deliver better outcomes and greater support for small businesses.