2  BIS Review 38/2006  The latest price hike, however, is being put down mainly to supply-side factors, namely, to heightened geopolitical concerns over the security of future supplies, especially in Iran, Iraq and Nigeria – or the recent events in Bolivia.
The goal is to support the economy by keeping funding costs low and credit available, especially to small and mediumsized businesses. As banker to the Australian Government, the RBA has also processed the many billions of dollars in government assistance to households and businesses. We have also made sure that the payments system is working well and that banknote supply is maintained.