Australian shares have moved higher for a sixth straight day, as markets around the world rallied on the back of positive data from the world's two largest economies.
Australian shares have jumped after China reported stronger-than-expected economic data - but the local bourse didn't gain as much as other Asian indices, with investors cautious a day ahead of the federal government's budget.
The Australian stock market is on track for its worst session in 12 weeks as the big four banks, the major miners and the energy sector continue to weigh amid a wider slump.
Australian shares closed up a whisker following a late afternoon rally after spending most of the day in the red during a busy day for economic indicators.
Australian shares have closed marginally down after a spike in the price of iron ore that boosted mining companies couldn't make up for losses elsewhere.