The Aussie market finished in the red today following mixed offshore leads and caution ahead of this week's slew of economic data releases.

The key focus will be on tomorrow's RBA interest rate decision, scheduled for 2:30pm, AEDT.

Most economists are expecting a 25 basis point cut in the official cash rate, to 4.50%.

Resource stocks drove much of the session's losses, with BHP losing 2.3% and Rio Tinto shedding 1.4%.

The forced resumption of Qantas flights helped the carrier's share price rise 4.3%. Rival Virgin Blue advanced 4.2% for the day.

Leading the big four banks lower was ANZ, which fell 1.8%. NAB gave up some of last week's big gains, falling 1.1% on the day.

The ASX 200 declined 55 points (-1.3%), closing at 4298.

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