Lots of numbers are thrown around on Australia's debt and the volume of Commonwealth Government Securities on issue. For the correct numbers, go to the Australian Office of Financial Management website, http://aofm.gov.au/.
The correct amount (gross not net) is $270 billion, rolled over at the rate of about $800 million a week. Since half is owned by foreigners, Australia relies on the good graces of foreign investors to buy our bonds.
Total Commonwealth Government Securities on Issue - $269,978 million
consisting of:
- Treasury Bonds - $244,740m
- Treasury Indexed Bonds - $18,719m
- Treasury Notes - $6,500m
- Other Securities - $20m
Securities on issue subject to the limit under the Commonwealth Inscribed Stock Act 1911 total $265,391 million.
As at 23 August 2013 (updated each week).