Research Briefing | Apr 27, 2021

Australia | A structural measure of the budget balance

RB2704 iPad frame

The budget deficit blew out in FY20 and will widen further in FY21 due to the
government’s efforts to cushion the shock of the COVID-19 recession. Headline measures of the budget deficits portray the scope of the response but have little value in depicting the longer-run sustainability of the budget position.

We have developed a structural measure of the budget deficit that accounts for large swings in key commodity and domestic prices and the economy’s position in the business cycle. This measure is much more informative about whether current fiscal settings are sustainable and will not result in an explosive trajectory for debt, in the long run.

What you will learn from this comprehensive 4-page report:

  • The structural budget balance has deteriorated but appears sustainable
  • Prices can drive large swings in nominal GDP growth
  • Structural measures ‘look through’ volatility
  • Nominal GDP exceeded its structural level for many years, boosting revenue
Back to Resource Hub

Related Services

Post

Trump policies provide tailwinds for industries, with exceptions in Japan

We expect the impact of Trump policies will be a net positive for Japan. The boost from higher import demand due to expansionary fiscal policies will likely overwhelm the adverse impact of targeted tariffs on Japan. The US is Japan's biggest goods export destination, accounting for 20% of total. Most traded items such as machinery and automotives are set to benefit from higher investment demand and consumer spending.

Find Out More

Post

Alberta’s success at attracting migrants is building pressures

Alberta's population has grown rapidly over the last three years, driven by a surge in international migration.

Find Out More