Economic Outlook Provides Valuable Insights For Regional Businesses

(L-R) Dean Kirkwood (General Manager, Resource Industry Network), Margot Brandenburg (National Manager, Bendigo Bank Business Banking), Karen May (Chair, Community Bank Sarina), Cr Mayor Greg Williamson, David Robertson (Bendigo Bank Chief Economist and Head of Economic and Markets Research), Josie Dahtler (Customer Relationship Manager, Community Bank Sarina), Luke Sheppard (Senior Business Relationship Manager Nth QLD Bendigo Bank), Maree Franettovich (Deputy Chair, Community Bank Sarina) and Harriet McLennan (Manager Qld & NT, Bendigo Bank Business Banking).  

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Business leaders from across the Mackay region recently heard firsthand from Bendigo Bank Chief Economist and Head of Economic and Markets Research, David 'Robbo' Robertson, who returned to Mackay following the strong response to his visit last year.

Robbo presented his 2026/27 financial year outlook at a NFY (New Financial Year) Outlook Breakfast hosted by Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, in partnership with Resource Industry Network (RIN).

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Known for making complex economic trends easy to understand, Robbo's engaging style has earned him a strong following. With more than two decades at Bendigo Bank and a career spanning senior roles across major financial institutions, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May said bringing a nationally recognised expert to the region was part of their commitment to supporting the long term resilience of the business community.

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"Our region is heavily influenced by the resources sector, so understanding the economic outlook is critical not only for mining businesses but also for the many businesses that support them," Mrs May said.

"Bringing Robbo to Mackay is one way we're investing in the knowledge and capability of local businesses, supporting these organisations to prepare for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead."

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Included in Robbo's outlook for the year ahead (dependent on the duration of the Iran conflict) were:

• Interest rates are expected to remain relatively steady, with no significant easing ahead

• Inflation is forecast to remain between 2¾% and 3¾%

• Our major trading partners in Asia are expected to continue outperforming many other regions, creating opportunities for Australia

• Financial markets are likely to remain volatile, with ongoing global events continuing to influence investment markets

• Australia's unemployment rate is expected to rise slightly but remains lower than 2019

• Australia's AAA credit rating is expected to remain intact  

• The Australian dollar is expected to eventually consolidate above US70 cents

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Robbo’s visit formed part of a regional tour, ensuring business leaders across Mackay and the Whitsundays had access to trusted economic insights to help them future proof their businesses.  

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