Share this @internewscast.com
Addressing the risk posed by global economic challenges is the top priority for the government, according to Treasurer Jim Chalmers, following an early briefing with the Treasury secretary just after Labor’s notable election triumph.
Chalmers mentioned on ABC’s Insiders program that he had a conversation with Treasury head Steven Kennedy at 6:45 am, where they discussed potential impacts on Australia amid tense US–China dynamics, including the shifts in financial markets and their implications for the domestic economy.
He labeled this concern as the government’s “primary focus.”
“We understand that the direct effects on us from the [US] tariffs are manageable and somewhat limited,” Chalmers informed Insiders.

“However, there is considerable risk looming over the global economy. The ongoing US-China situation indeed casts a significant shadow over international economic conditions.”

A man in a black suit standing in front of a coat of arms background.

In March, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said there would be a $42 billion budget deficit next year. Source: AAP / Jono Searle

In April, Australia’s growth outlook was slashed by a major international body as US President Donald Trump’s sent markets into a tailspin.

The International Monetary Fund said uncertainty had reached unprecedented levels and downgraded Australia’s economic growth projection for 2025 from 2.1 per cent in January to 1.6 per cent.

If the agency’s predictions unfold, about $13 billion would be shaved off Australia’s economy.

Markets rebounded after Trump announced impacting exporters in most countries.
The federal government has also been working to secure a tariff exemption, like it did during Trump’s first term.

The Treasurer expressed the government’s “realistic” perspective on the possible global impacts of Trump’s tariffs but also shared a positive outlook on Australia’s resilience, which includes implementing local policies such as renewable energy initiatives and housing improvements.

Announcing the federal budget earlier this year, Chalmers said there would be a $42 billion budget deficit next financial year and referred to global trade disruptions and wars in Ukraine and the Middle East amid .
Earlier this week, Albanese downplayed concerns Australia could face an economic downturn.

“Our administration has overseen growth every quarter since we took office, a contrast to many other advanced economies,” he remarked.

The Australian Industry Group has congratulated Albanese and Labor on winning a second term but said Australian businesses face immense challenges in the coming months.
“This is the toughest time in a generation to be a business,” the group said.
“Each day sees more global trade disruption, greater market intervention, the building of trade barriers and the risk of global conflict. As a trade-expressed economy, we will not be immune to the consequences of the rapidly changing global landscape.”
In his victory speech on Saturday evening, Albanese referred to global challenges but said his government would address these issues “the Australian way” by “looking after each other while building for the future”.
— With additional reporting by the Australian Associated Press.

For the latest from SBS News, and .
Visit the to access articles, podcasts and videos from SBS News, NITV and our teams covering more than 60 languages.
Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
This image provided by the FBI on Saturday, June 14, 2025, shows part of a poster with photos of Vance L. Boelter

Latest Insights on the Suspect in the Minnesota Shooting

The individual pursued by US law enforcement on suspicion of shooting Democratic…

Upcoming Discounts May Lower Solar Battery Costs Starting July 1, but Alternatives Exist

Homeowners eager to cut down on electricity expenses by adding solar panels…

Indonesian Authorities Pursue Suspects After Australian Man Fatally Shot in Bali

Key Points Indonesian police are looking for two suspects after Australians were…
Conor Tracey, Auckland City's goalkeeper, is one of the feel-good stories of the upcoming Club World Cup

FIFA’s Club World Cup: A Controversial Vanity Project by Gianni Infantino, Parallels with LIV Golf Highlighting Football’s Oversaturation, by Riath Al-Samarrai

FIFA’s Club World Cup presents some interesting stories. Take Auckland City, for…

US Democrat Melissa Hortman and Husband Fatally Targeted in Alleged Political Assassination

A gunman posing as a police officer killed a senior Democratic state…

New Solar Battery Discounts Starting July 1st: Exploring Affordable Alternatives

Homeowners hoping to reduce their power bills by installing solar panels are…

Three Teenagers Face Charges After Car Theft Incident Leads to Crash in Brisbane

Police have charged three teenagers after they allegedly crashed a stolen car…

Mosaic Brands Accused of Trading While Unable to Pay Debts for Years

Administrators for Australia’s largest specialty fashion group, Mosaic Brands, have suggested in…

“Tens of Thousands Rally Against Trump Nationwide: Key Points to Know About the ‘No Kings’ Protests”

Hundreds of thousands of Americans are protesting President Donald Trump’s policies at…
NSW drivers sitting on $130 million of unclaimed toll relief

$130 Million in Unclaimed Toll Relief Await NSW Drivers

Drivers in NSW have only a few weeks left to claim $130…

Anthony Albanese and Donald Trump to Have Meeting During G7 Summit

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has confirmed he has a meeting scheduled with…
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese departs Nadi at the conclusion of his visit to Fiji, on Saturday 14 June 2025. fedpol Photo: Alex Ellinghausen

Prime Minister Announces Initial In-Person Meeting with US President Donald Trump

The leaders will meet on Wednesday on the sidelines of the G7…