Measuring Economic and Social Outcomes

We have a long tradition of contributing to the measurement of economic and social indicators.

Our researchers have developed a range of tools that provide invaluable insights and current information about the pulse of the Australian economy, which are released well ahead of official statistics. As such, they are used widely by business analysts and policy makers. We are also committed to the ongoing measurement of social indicators such as the poverty line and social exclusion, and produce reports that provide valuable reference material for those concerned with social welfare policy in Australia.

Examples include:

The Westpac – Melbourne Institute Leading Index of Economic Activity

This provides a view of the state of the economy based on information from several variables which reflect different aspects of the economy.

The TD Securities – Melbourne Institute Inflation Gauge

This estimates the month-to-month price movements for a wide-ranging basket of goods and services across the main capital cities of Australia.

The Melbourne Institute Survey of Consumer Inflationary Expectations

This measures consumers’ beliefs about whether, and by how much, prices will change over the coming twelve months.

The Westpac – Melbourne Institute Survey of Consumer Unemployment Expectations

This presents consumers’ views about whether unemployment would be more, the same or less in the coming twelve months.

The Westpac – Melbourne Institute Consumer Sentiment Index

This provides an indication of the confidence that households have about financial and economic conditions in Australia.

Poverty Lines: Australia

This quarterly newsletter updates the Henderson Poverty Line as defined in the 1973 Commonwealth Commission of Inquiry into Poverty, presenting minimum income levels required to avoid a situation of poverty for a range of family sizes and circumstances.

Social Exclusion Monitor

Developed by the Brotherhood of St Laurence and the Melbourne Institute, this monitor uses the HILDA Survey to gauge how many people experience forms of social exclusion in Australia.

PwC Melbourne Institute Asialink Index: ANZ Services Report

This report examines Australia’s trade in four services – education, transport, finance and business services – with 16 Asian countries.