Chalmers' risky pivot.

The article discusses the challenges faced by Treasurer Jim Chalmers in the upcoming budget, which is likely the last before an election in early 2025. The article highlights the difficulty of balancing measures to prop up growth and assist with the cost of living without worsening the inflation outlook. It emphasizes the complexity of managing the economy and the need for judgment in economic decision-making. The article also mentions the impact of government spending, consumer confidence, and global factors on future growth. It concludes by suggesting the need for a national productivity strategy to achieve lower inflation without causing a recession. [Extracted from the article]

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