Last year's initial optimism disintegrated as the financial crisis came to a head in October. Fear now dominates. 

• Recession in the developed world threatens prospects for the Australian economy.
• Precautionary saving is affecting consumer spending. 
  
• Business, fearing funding difficulties and reduced demand, has gone cautious and is cutting costs.
  
• The next round of business investment projects is on hold.
  
• Uncertainty is delaying the interest rate initiation of housing recovery.

How bad will it get during 2009?
Don't panic. Australia will be sheltered from the worst of the world recession. We expect recovery to begin in the second half of 2009. Certainly we need to do what's necessary to survive.  But we also need to prepare for a post-crisis world.

BIS Shrapnel's Business Forecasting Conferences provide a forum for the presentation of our latest 18 month forecasts and a concise overview of major issues influencing the economy, building and property markets. They are held every March and September in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth.

Now run over 45 years, these half day briefings regularly assist senior decision makers from both the private and public sectors with their short to mid-term planning, strategy and budgeting. They are designed to give a clear understanding of the economic and industry outlook through to June 2010 with insights into emerging issues that business will face over this time, resulting prospects and key actions required. Delegates will receive BIS Shrapnel’s latest 18 month forecasts, nationally and with state-by-state analyses and comparisons.

Registration Fees (inc GST)

• Cost to attend each briefing is $715, or attend the full day including the luncheon for $1,573. Delegates receive a set of Conference Papers to the relevant briefings.
• Subscribers to BIS Shrapnel's Economic Outlook and Building Industry Prospects monthly bulletin services receive two complimentary seats to the relevant briefing, twice yearly (value $2,860). 
• For those unable to attend, Conference Papers are available post event for $418 per set.

For National Group Conference or Subscription enquiries, please contact Kellie Osta, Subscriptions and Conference Manager on 02 9959 5924 or kosta@bis.com.au