Less of a spike, more of a grind: Australian Forward View July 2026 - NAB

24 July 2026

Economy and Markets

Key points

  • We continue to forecast below trend growth this year and next and a gradual rise in the unemployment rate.
  • The squeeze on households from high fuel prices was less acute in Q2 than earlier feared, which may mean near-term spending is a bit more resilient.
  • But slower real income growth and the headwind from the housing market mean we continue to expect consumption growth of just 1.4% yoy over 2026 and 2027.
  • Fuel prices fell steadily through Q2 but have reversed higher in recent weeks.

The Middle East conflict still points to elevated uncertainty, higher inflation, and slower growth, but now looks less like an acute spike and more like a rolling grind.

Read the full Australian Forward View Report - July 2026.

Related Articles

RBA Watch: RBA on hold, as expected

Interest Rates

In a unanimous decision, the RBA Monetary Policy Board left the cash rate unchanged at 4.35% in August.

12 August 2026 | 2 min read

NAB Business Survey July 2026

Economy and Markets

Business confidence fell in July after rising for three consecutive months as uncertainty around the Middle East conflict and oil prices have continued to weigh on the outlook. Meanwhile, conditions rose in July, driven by modest improvements in profitability and employment.

11 August 2026 | 3 min read

Participate in the NAB Monthly Business Survey

Economy and Markets

Help shape Australia's leading measure of business conditions and confidence by having your say in the NAB Monthly Business Survey.

11 August 2026 | 1 min read

NAB Housing Monitor August 2026

Economy and Markets

Dwelling prices continue to fall, and price declines have broadened to the mid-sized capitals.

04 August 2026 | 2 min read

Contact us

Media Enquiries

For all media enquiries, please contact the NAB Media Line on +61 3 7035 5015