Reserve Bank of Australia said the country might experience a recession over the next half-year if COVID-19 outbreaks worsen but think it’s “unlikely.” RBA Governor Philip Lowe told the House of Representatives economics committee on Friday that the extent of economic contraction in the next few months depended on the length of lockdowns and the probability of future outbreaks. “We can’t rule out two-quarters of negative GDP if the health situation deteriorates, but I think it is quite unlikely at this stage,” Lowe said. “By the end of the year, many of us will be vaccinated; one hopes the restrictions are being eased later this quarter and into the next quarter.” Lowe also said it was important to note that not the entire country was affected by the lockdowns, and “significant” parts of the economy are still on the positive trajectory from before the outbreaks. The central bank also expects the …