Australia recorded its highest account surplus over the June quarter on the back of iron ore exports while domestic economic activity also increased.
The account surplus was driven by a trade surplus that was led by sky high prices and demand for iron ore and other minerals from China.
The three months to June, the value of exports for goods and services increased by 6 percent while the value of imports increased by 4 percent.
While the value of exports increased, the volume of exports actually decreased due to shipping disruptions from various reasons, such as COVID-19 and weather.
While the trade sector recorded a surplus, the financial account fell a further $9.6 billion into a total deficit of $24.2 billion, as more Australians had their investments moved overseas.
“The movement was due to resurgent offshore investment activity by Australian superannuation and investment funds as a result of a more positive global economic outlook and favourable equity markets conditions overseas,” ABS Head of International Statistics Andrew Tomadini said.
“Domestic demand drove growth of 0.7 per cent this quarter which saw continued growth across household spending, private investment, and public sector expenditure,” ABS Head of National Accounts Michael Smedes said.
Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said these numbers confirm that the Australian economy had grown over the quarter, ahead of market expectations, but admitted the economy had difficult days ahead.
Smedes noted that the earlier short lockdowns had minimal impact on household spending, while the current extended lockdowns began after the June quarter.
This means the data does not reflect Australia’s current economic situation after extended hard lockdowns were implemented in the country’s two biggest states, New South Wales and Victoria.