Year 12 Students Explore Monetary Policy with the RBA at UTAS
Economic theory was brought to life in a dynamic excursion for the College’s Year 12 Economics students when they visited the University of Tasmania (UTAS) to hear directly from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) about the intricacies of monetary policy.
Joel Fernando from the RBA delivered an exceptional presentation, unpacking the real-world implications of rising interest rates and explaining why they are often described as a “blunt instrument” in economic management. The economist’s insights sparked thoughtful discussion among students, who were eager to connect classroom learning with current challenges.
A heartfelt thanks goes to Dr Maria Yanotti and the UTAS team for hosting us and facilitating such a valuable learning opportunity.
Following the RBA session, students ventured into the local business community to investigate how interest rate changes affect small enterprises. At Shah’s Kebabs in Invermay, co-owner and entrepreneur Yasin Mohammadi generously shared his experiences navigating the economic landscape, offering students a firsthand look at the challenges and adaptations required in a high-interest environment.
It was also serendipitous that the group encountered Anthony Donald, CEO of TasPorts and a parent at our College. Mr Donald spoke passionately about the role of infrastructure in regional development and the economic significance of Tasmania’s ports and the new Spirit of Tasmania vessels. His impromptu talk added a powerful layer to the day’s learning, especially as he was on his way to meet with the RBA.
This immersive experience allowed students to see the direct application of interest rate theory in both policy and practice. From central banking to kebab shops to port infrastructure, the day was a masterclass in economic connectivity—and a brilliant win for experiential learning.
Joy Russell
Teacher
