Australia's economy slowed sharply in early 2026, with GDP growth dropping to 0.3% in the March quarter from 0.9% in December, while living standards declined as household incomes barely kept pace with inflation. Treasurer Jim Chalmers highlighted a datacentre investment boom as a bright spot, but economists warn the outlook remains grim amid Middle East conflict, rising oil prices, and potential interest rate hikes.
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Australia's economy slowed sharply in early 2026, with GDP growth dropping to 0.3% in the March quarter from 0.9% in December, while living standards declined as household incomes barely kept pace with inflation. Treasurer Jim Chalmers highlighted a datacentre investment boom as a bright spot, but economists warn the outlook remains grim amid Middle East conflict, rising oil prices, and potential interest rate hikes.