Moody's Investors Service says that.........>

RATINGS: Moody's Investors Service says that Australia's (Aaa stable) credit

profile reflects its very high economic strength, buttressed by the country's

robust growth potential and demonstrated flexibility in adjusting to a changing

economic environment. A solid institutional framework - including transparent

and effective monetary policy and financial regulation - also underpins

Australia's creditworthiness, lowering the probability and impact of potential

economic and financial shocks. Australia's moderate debt burden relative to

Aaa-rated peers also supports its sovereign rating, although the government

continues to face challenges in fiscal consolidation.