What's at stake

Australia's cash rate may move at the February RBA meeting, changing borrowing costs for households and businesses.

A hike, hold, or cut alters mortgage rates, the Australian dollar, and the inflation trajectory that shapes spending and investment. It also affects bank margins and government bond yields.

Who's in play

Governor Michele Bullock and the RBA Board set the official cash rate and explain their outlook.

Markets and major banks react to decisions. Fiscal authorities and households adjust borrowing and spending plans accordingly.

What drives it

Latest CPI, wage, and labour‑force data drive judgement on whether inflation is falling sustainably toward target.

Global rate moves, commodity prices, the AUD exchange rate, and Australia‑specific lending conditions are the other levers that can push the Board toward hiking, holding, or cutting.

What to watch

Key upcoming signals include CPI and wage releases, monthly employment and retail data, and the RBA's February business liaison reports.

Watch the Board's post‑meeting statement, Governor Bullock's press conference and speeches, plus minutes and any shifts in the RBA's inflation or growth forecasts for directional clues.