From fuel wars to AI: the forces driving the RBA rate decision – podcast
News Source
•Mon, 28 Sep 2026 15:00:37 GMT
📰 What Happened
Guardian Australia's Full Story podcast looked at what is driving the Reserve Bank's next rate decision. Inflation is still high, and global pressures are building. Many people expect another interest rate rise.
The cash rate could go to 4.6%. That would be its highest level since 2011. Economics editor Patrick Commins joined host Reged Ahmad to explain the decision. They also discussed what it means for households already under pressure.
🔍 The Backstory
The Reserve Bank sets the cash rate to keep inflation under control. When prices rise too fast, the bank lifts rates to slow spending. Higher rates mean bigger repayments for people with home loans.
The bank has raised rates several times in recent years. Some experts worry that pushing them too high could hurt the economy. Others say inflation must be tamed first.
🎯 Why It Matters
A rate rise means many households pay more on their home loans. It can squeeze family budgets and change how much people can spend or save.
Guardian Australia's Full Story podcast looked at what is driving the Reserve Bank's next rate decision. Inflation is still high, and global pressures are building. Many people expect another interest rate rise.
The cash rate could go to 4.6%. That would be its highest level since 2011. Economics editor Patrick Commins joined host Reged Ahmad to explain the decision. They also discussed what it means for households already under pressure.
The Reserve Bank sets the cash rate to keep inflation under control. When prices rise too fast, the bank lifts rates to slow spending. Higher rates mean bigger repayments for people with home loans.
The bank has raised rates several times in recent years. Some experts worry that pushing them too high could hurt the economy. Others say inflation must be tamed first.
A rate rise means many households pay more on their home loans. It can squeeze family budgets and change how much people can spend or save.