Economy | SmartCompany

Australian economy in 2066 will be determined by AI-fuelled productivity boost

Jacob Shteyman — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 00:29:42 +0000

The latest Intergenerational Report highlights the critical role AI will play in the future of the Australian economy.

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AirTrunk unveils $37 million data centre package as regional NSW locals question benefits

Simon Thompson — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 23:16:34 +0000

A $37 million package, cheaper power and hundreds of jobs are on the table as AirTrunk seeks support for its Kurri Kurri data centre. But not everyone is convinced the benefits will outweigh the costs.

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Two interstate teams, one Victorian day off: Businesses question AFL Grand Final public holiday

Simon Thompson — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 01:58:36 +0000

Victorian businesses are counting the cost of Grand Final Friday as a renewed push puts the controversial public holiday back under scrutiny.

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Most of my company’s revenue comes from exports, but I don’t have to worry about shipping

Ross Symons — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 03:49:08 +0000

Australia's gaming sector shows that export success can be achieved without shipping physical items offshore.

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‘Very little return’: Nearly 40% of small business owners earn less than $40,000

Simon Thompson — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 06:45:57 +0000

Nearly four in 10 small business owners paid themselves less than $40,000 or nothing at all, in the 2025 financial year.

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Australia on the cusp of $60 billion “data centre boom” as AI needs grow

Kaaren Morrissey — Mon, 07 Sep 2026 23:59:44 +0000

AI adoption in Australia is predicted to rapidly increase over the next decade, creating demand for data centres and jobs, too.

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Father’s Day spending tipped to reach $730 million as retailers call for more support

Kate Weber — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 01:53:08 +0000

Father’s Day spending is expected to peak at $730 million, despite tighter budgets as the ARC calls for support for retailers.

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RBA rate hike ‘all but assured’ after economy grows 2.1%

Jacob Shteyman — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 23:40:45 +0000

Australia’s economy grew a stronger-than-expected 2.1% over the past financial year, adding to pressure on the Reserve Bank to raise interest rates again.

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Businesses could get simpler retail leasing rules under federal push

Andrew Brown — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 01:18:46 +0000

Small businesses could soon face fewer headaches when leasing retail space, with the federal government launching a consultation on simplifying commercial tenancy rules.

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Built Living secures $120 million NRFC loan for cheaper, faster prefab apartments

David Adams — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 20:45:35 +0000

The federal government's $15 billion manufacturing investment corporation said the loan is a step towards addressing the housing crisis.

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