CSL shares surged after its first-half earnings and the ASX had its best day in a week after Russia claimed to be moving troops away from the Ukraine border.
The announcement that international borders will open this month and signs that the COVID-19 Omicron variant peak has passed has lifted consumers' spirits.
Regis Resources, Northern Star and Ramelius Resources were up strongly on the back of elevated gold prices after world leaders warned major oil producer Russia may invade Ukraine within days.
National Australia Bank pleased with first-quarter earnings while under-fire AMP gave investors more reason to believe this earnings season could be a good one.
The man tasked with overseeing the McGowan government's flagship Metronet project, Anthony Kannis, has been promoted to director general of the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage.
Border closures have cost the Australian economy billions of dollars with bosses having trouble finding suitable staff in the absence of skilled migrants.
The Reserve Bank of Australia says the economy has bounced back strongly from last year's Delta lockdowns and the signs indicate the effect from the Omicron variant on spending has been relatively small.
The Reserve Bank of Australia will give a broad view of its outlook for the economy and interest rates when it releases its quarterly statement on monetary policy.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison has backed Premier McGowan's decision to delay WA's border reopening but noted it was the Premier's call on when he believes his health system is ready.
