Measuring Inequality for Small Areas Using Spatial Microsimulation: An Australian Case Study

Riyana Miranti, Rebecca Cassells, Yogi Vidyattama, Justine McNamara

Research output: A Conference proceeding or a Chapter in BookConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

In this paper, we have used spatial microsimulation techniques to calculate small area inequality in Australia using disposable income data which are not available at a small area level. Applying this technique, household synthetic data at small area level are created, drawing together data from the Australian Census and Survey. Using disposable income increases the strength of the results, as a more accurate measure of income distribution is able to be obtained. Small area inequality estimation enables the policy maker to pinpoint pockets of inequality and to link these with other small area characteristics. Further, a case study of New South Wales, the most populous state in Australia is analyzed and the results show that there are marked differences in what appears to be associated with variation in inequality between urban area (Sydney) and rural areas highlighting the complexity of income inequality at a small area level.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationThe 42nd Australian Conference of Economists Conference Proceedings Beyond the Frontiers: New Directions in Economics
EditorsDavid Butler, Maria Mangano
Place of PublicationAustralia
PublisherMurdoch University
Pages1-31
Number of pages31
ISBN (Print)9781921877124
Publication statusPublished - 2013
Event42nd Australian Conference of Economists - Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
Duration: 7 Jul 201310 Jul 2013

Conference

Conference42nd Australian Conference of Economists
Country/TerritoryAustralia
CityPerth
Period7/07/1310/07/13

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