Economics is a social science that deals with the production, trade and use of goods and services. As such, it provides an analytical basis for decisions made in business and government.

Economists advise and provide forecasts to governments and companies on wages and prices, tax, imports and exports, employment and unemployment, and interest and exchange rates. They provide analysis on local, national and international circumstances, or particular attributes of industries or regions.

A distinct advantage of an Economics degree over many other 'business-oriented' degrees is the wide range of job opportunities that it provides. In addition to working as economists, economics graduates work in a range of positions in banking and finance, management, marketing, education, environmental protection, government and politics

Assignments that economists may perform include:

• preparing forecasts, analysing trends and advising on economic issues
• assisting the development of government economic policies;
• investigating industrial relations issues such as wage fixation and the effect of industrial disputes on productivity;
• analysing the effects of government labour market changes on economic and industrial growth
• researching the types of goods and services that are produced and consumed locally and in other countries
• identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and international competitiveness
• studying the effects of government economic and monetary policies, spending, and taxation on the economy and society;

The average starting salary of economics graduates in Australia is close to the average for graduates in all disciplines. This salary typically increases in the five years after graduation more quickly than most other occupations (Good Universities Guide to Australian Universities, 2004). The salaries of the top economists in the country are measured in hundreds of thousands of dollars.