The economy was slowing even before the Middle East conflict and interest rate hikes started to bite, while the boom in datacentres was a rare bright spot

New data released by the ABS showed Australia’s economy was already slowing before being hit by the fallout from the Middle East war and interest rate increases.

The staggering $8.7 billion data-centre boom is keeping Australia’s head above water, but beneath it lies a painful reality that could become even worse.

The economy was slowing even before the Middle East conflict and interest rate hikes started to bite, while the boom in datacentres was a rare bright spot

Disappointing growth figures won’t stop the treasurer claiming things are going well in the circumstances. That confidence is unlikely to persuade voters.

The economy grew just 0.3 per cent in the first quarter, gross domestic product per capita went backwards, and interest rate rises and cost-of-living pressures are weighing on…