Chalmers says Australians should not bear the cost of overseas decisions as rate call looms

Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers said Australians should not have to "carry the can" of decisions made overseas, as attention in Canberra and beyond turned to the Reserve Bank of Australia's upcoming cash rate decision.

The remarks came as part of a wider day of political and economic news in Australia, with the Reserve Bank's decision expected to weigh on household budgets and mortgage repayments across the country.

Separately, New South Wales police confirmed they are investigating the suspicious deaths of two men in the state's north, after the first man, identified as 79 years old, was found dead at a property.

Chalmers' comments reflect a broader debate in Australian politics over how much domestic economic conditions, including interest rates and the cost of living, are being shaped by international factors rather than decisions made by the government in Canberra.

The Reserve Bank's cash rate decision is closely watched by households, businesses and financial markets, given its direct impact on borrowing costs across the Australian economy. Further details on both the rate decision and the New South Wales police investigation are expected to emerge as the day continues.