Seeking to cool a growing economy, the Reserve Bank of Australia has increased interest rates from 3.75% to 4% in a move widely expected by experts. As the only major economy to avoid recession (generally considered to be two consecutive quarters of negative growth), and the first to raise rates from 50-year lows as the economic crisis eased, it follows three consecutive rises at the end of 2009 but is the first rise for 2010.
Australia has performed very well in the last 12 months, in fact better than any other OECD country. So can we expect that to continue without end? Can we expect property prices and rents to continue to endlessly increase in Australia? A sensible and careful answer would be that Australia has performed better than most countries but to expect this to continue and take this for granted would be ill advised.
Michael Marquette’s “View from the Bridge” this week looks at where Australian interest rates are heading: It is widely believed that Australian interest rates will increase by a further 0.25% when the Reserve Bank meets on February 2. The markets have already factored in the rise, with positive economic data showing continued strength within the economy.
It’s hard to believe that Australia’s most populous State and home of Sydney (the Year 2000 Olympic City) is the worst performing economy in the country. New South Wales is in trouble and has been for some time. It’s time for our leaders in New South Wales to have vision and purpose – something that has been missing for over a decade.
Christine Watson of Marquette Turner Luxury Homes writes: On a warm balmy evening, there is no better way to keep children amused than to drive the suburban streets of Sydney and look at homes and gardens that are decorated in the “True Christmas Spirit”. There are many Santas waving, Reindeers pulling sleds, Big Red Bags Full of Gifts, and lights twinkling everywhere.
Christine Watson of Marquette Turner Luxury Homes writes: Recently one of Sydney’s Councils budgeted $536,460 for graffiti removal, believing the best way to fight graffiti is to remove it quickly. Tougher laws are being introduced to try and reduce the amount of graffiti sweeping our suburbs. People now found carrying pens, paint or spray cans face and $1,100 fine or three month’s jail. On the spot fines can now be issued to retailers who sell spray paint to people under the age of 18.
Christine Watson of Marquette Turner Luxury Homes writes: In Australia, we celebrated our National Day of Thanksgiving on 30th May, 2009. In respect of our USA friends, who will be celebrating Thanksgiving this week (as indeed Marquette Turner Luxury Homes will be – a tradition we started last year) , I would like to share the Statement made by our Governor-General, Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce, AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia.
Christine Watson of Marquette Turner Luxury Homes writes: As part of a trial with Energy Australia, the City of Sydney are installing two hundred and fifty sustainable street lights across the Sydney CBD and city villages. A range of 200 LED lighting products at four locations – Martin Place, Circular Quay, Darlinghurst Road and Alexandria Park and 50 Cosmopolis street lights in Bourke Street, Surry Hills are being installed as part of the first trial.
Michael Marquette of Marquette Turner Luxury Homes writes: Sydney is fast giving up its mantle as Australia’s number 1 City. The slide has continued throughout the last decade as Melbourne has continued to stand up to its more fancied rival. Sydney has been under constant fire from other Australian cities since its peak when it hosted the Olympic Games in 2000. Melbourne plays host to some of the World’s greatest events – the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix at Albert Park and the Australian Open Tennis at Melbourne Park to name just two.
Michael Marquette of Marquette Turner Luxury Homes writes: In raising interest rates yesterday by 0.25% the Reserve Bank of Australia has signaled that it is hugely concerned by the level of property prices in Australia. Without question prices for residential dwellings decreased since the beginning of the financial crisis. What is also without question is that properties under $600,000 AUD have been uncomfortably increasing in price throughout 2009.
Amazing resort the pool are great very romantic place. Aromatherapy is an experience for the mind, body and soul. 
Very unique design, i wonder how it is made? 
My parents just had their home converted to solar…but these look impressive. 
I think when you sleep in this kind of bed even the lights are off you still feel that the ...
Well, you'll probably color me jealous but this is just another example of way too much money being spent on ...
The design is really wonderful and it is worth winning an award. 
So it all sounds good ( a workable ballance)...as per your statments above, but I don't understand then what the ...
I went here last week, the place are beautiful and clean and the people in Thailand is friendly. 
I think this is a very relaxing spa on that island. 
