Measures from the ANZ-Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence survey show confidence fell to a record low in late March before edging up slightly in the latest reading.

The event held from 22 to 24 March in Bengaluru has brought together political, business and academic figures of Indian origin to discuss issues ranging from artificial intelligence and climate change to trade and philanthropy.

Melbourne has retained its position as Australia’s top destination for overnight interstate leisure travellers, attracting 3.5 million visitors who stayed 13 million nights and spent $5.9 billion in the city.

“Fiji’s strength lies in its diversity,” he said, pointing to the country’s multiethnic population, including iTaukei, Rotumans, Indo-Fijians, Banabans, Chinese, Pacific Islanders, and other residents.

According to the Pew Research Centre, Indian Americans consistently rank among the highest-earning ethnic groups in the United States and have comparatively low reliance on welfare and assistance programmes.

Economists agree this is the better measure but in most countries the difference between GDP and GNDI is minuscule.

Julian Hill MP noted that Australia’s population is ageing and that many sectors, from agriculture to hospitality, rely on temporary and skilled migrant labour.

International education is NSW’s second-largest export, generating $12.8 billion in total economic activity and supporting nearly 120,000 full-time equivalent jobs.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said in a statement the goal is both “ambitious but achievable”, designed to drive investment, respond to the science and prepare Australia for the global clean energy transition.

Families are still under pressure, yet the rise in spending suggests confidence is returning and lower interest rates are starting to help.