Data is only one window into what’s happening in the economy. To really understand what’s going on and why, we also need to engage with the people who operate within the economy. Enter the liaison program – a formal program of economic intelligence gathering established in 2001. Through the program our economists meet frequently with businesses, industry bodies, government agencies and community organisations. This gives us a near real time read on the economy that complements published data and economic models in informing our assessment of economic conditions.

In this episode, learn about the history of the program, why we place so much importance on talking to the community in this way and how it has supported our decision-making over the last two decades.

Guests

Assistant Governor (Economic) Luci Ellis

Senior Manager Kate McLoughlin

Senior Representative (Western Australia) Aaron Walker

Senior Representative (Queensland) Kate Davis

(Interviews recorded in December 2022.)

Additional resources

Box B: Insights from Liaison | Statement on Monetary Policy – February 2023 | RBA

The Reserve Bank's Liaison Program Turns 21 | Bulletin – September 2022 | RBA