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AI, War & The Six Waves Set to Hit Australia (2026–2030)

According to Grant Abbott, these six forces are not happening individually — they’re converging at once.

That’s what makes this period so significant.

Wave 1: Global Conflict & Oil Shock

The Iran-US conflict has already started impacting:

  • Fuel supply
  • Diesel availability
  • Fertiliser production
  • Shipping routes
  • Global supply chains

Some forecasts suggest oil could reach $225–$250 per barrel by 2028.

That could mean:

  • Higher fuel prices
  • Increased food costs
  • Inflation pressures
  • Business closures

⚠️ Even if conflict stops today, the economic effects could last 2–3 years.

Wave 2: The Property Cycle Turning

Australia operates on an 18.6-year property cycle.

According to leading analysts:

  • Property downturn expected 2026–2028
  • Credit tightening already beginning
  • Investor confidence weakening

History shows that those with cash during downturns create generational wealth.

Grant shared his own example:

“During the GFC, I bought a three-storey apartment in Potts Point for $960,000 — it had sold for $1.3 million weeks earlier.”

Opportunity follows downturns — if you’re prepared.

Wave 3: AI Disruption & Job Replacement

AI is accelerating faster than expected.

Grant and Michael discussed:

  • AI agents replacing employees
  • Automation of tax, legal and accounting work
  • One-person businesses becoming common
  • Government departments automating roles

This creates:

  • Job displacement
  • Business restructuring
  • Mortgage stress risks

But also:

  • New opportunities
  • Lower operating costs
  • Increased productivity

Wave 4: China Slowing & Economic Shifts

For decades, Australia relied heavily on China.

Now:

  • China negotiating harder on iron ore
  • Domestic consumption prioritised
  • Reduced global demand growth

Australia must now stand on its own economic strength.

Wave 5: Government Spending Explosion

Major budget pressures include:

  • NDIS growth
  • Aged care expansion
  • Healthcare costs
  • AI reducing tax revenue
  • Increased unemployment risk

This leads to one likely outcome:

More taxes.

Potential tax changes may include:

  • Capital gains tax changes
  • Negative gearing changes
  • Wealth taxes
  • Inheritance taxes

Wave 6: AI + War Acceleration Effect

The sixth wave is the acceleration effect.

When global conflict combines with:

  • AI disruption
  • Property downturn
  • Government spending

The economic impact compounds rapidly.

Why Wealth Protection Matters Now

Grant emphasised one key message:

“You can’t rely on governments — you must protect yourself.”

This includes:

  • Asset protection strategies
  • Family trusts
  • SMSF structures
  • Succession planning
  • Debt structuring

These strategies help protect:

  • Family homes
  • Investments
  • Businesses
  • Retirement savings

The Opportunity Within the Storm

While the six waves bring risk — they also bring opportunity.

Those who prepare may benefit from:

  • Lower property prices
  • Investment opportunities
  • Business restructuring
  • AI-driven growth

Preparation is the key.

Watch The Full Discussion

Grant Abbott and Michael Jeffriess dive deeper into:

  • AI disruption
  • Global conflict
  • Economic forecasts
  • Wealth protection strategies

🎥 Watch the full 60 minute webinar video here

Video: https://youtu.be/h5xld3SGNcU

Your client's situation

Whether and how this fits your situation is a conversation with Grant.

Ask the free strategist the what and the why, then book a private session to work through the how.