The picture painted by the first survey of 2020 is broadly similar to that at the end of 2019. While there has been no significant deterioration in overall terms – despite some state and industry evidence of a bushfire impact – the survey continues to suggest very little / to no growth in the private sector. In the month, conditions were unchanged +3 index points – continuing their below average run since April last year. Confidence edged higher but remains weak after reaching its lowest level since mid-2013 last month. A similar pattern across industries continues, with services still outperforming and goods ... (full story)