Australia jobs slip in April, unemployment hits highest since 2021

SYDNEY - Australian employment unexpectedly fell in April while the jobless rate jumped to the highest level since late 2021, a possible sign the labour market might be loosening enough to stave off a near-term rate hike.

Figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed net employment fell 18,600 in April from March, when it rose a revised 23,300. That was far below market forecasts of a 15,000 gain. Full-time jobs dropped 10,700 after a sharp rise the previous month.

The jobless rate climbed to 4.5%, when analysts had looked for a steady 4.3%, while the participation rate eased a tick to 66.7%. Hours worked still rose a solid 0.8%.

(Reporting by Wayne Cole; Editing by Himani Sarkar)

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This story was originally published May 20, 2026 at 8:54 PM.