Australian Consumer Sentiment Slips in March on Economic and Finance Worries

Consumer sentiment in Australia eased in March from 20-month highs due to economic outlook and family finance worries
Westpac-Melbourne Institute index fell 1.8% in March after jumping 6.2% in February
Index shows pessimists outnumber optimists, continuing a 2-year trend of consumer gloom
Sharp drop in sentiment after RBA meeting kept rates steady but toned down warning of future hikes
Consumers remain positive on house prices but outlook worsened for family finances, economy, and major purchases