Market forecasts indicate a doubled likelihood of a Reserve Bank interest rate hike as escalating Middle East tensions drive fuel prices higher. Brent crude surged 23% to near $US90/barrel, impacting Australian motorists and raising stagflation concerns for the economy.
Queensland's Liberal National government buried a report by domestic violence victim-survivors that criticized police handling of cases and advocated for civilian review mechanisms, despite promises to prioritize victims in justice policies.
The escalating Middle East crisis has driven Brent crude prices up 23% to near $US90/barrel, doubling market forecasts for an Australian Reserve Bank interest rate hike. Australian motorists face rising fuel costs as experts warn of a critical juncture for global energy markets.
Chinese carmakers face a brutal price war due to weak buying interest and policy changes. AlixPartners forecasts 24.6 million light vehicle deliveries this year, with 10 million exports, but domestic sales are expected to decline 27.7%.
