Australian shares slip as Westpac drags on banks before RBA decision

Australian shares declined, with Westpac weighing on the banking sector, as investors awaited the Reserve Bank of Australia's policy decision. Financials carry heavy weight in the local benchmark, making bank moves a significant driver of index direction. The pullback came ahead of a rate decision that will be scrutinised for signals on the RBA's assessment of inflation and household demand. Elsewhere in the market, Dexus Convenience Retail REIT reported full-year results that met guidance, with net tangible assets up 6%, and CAR Group pointed to double-digit growth across its regions.