Australia Unemployment Rate — 2026 Data, Trend & Forecast
Australia's unemployment rate was 4.36% in May 2026, down from 4.48% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 4.08%.
Australia's unemployment rate stands at 4.36% as of May 2026. Over the latest readings, the unemployment rate has moved within a band of 3.44% to 7.44%. The most recent figure of 4.36% is down from 4.48% a month earlier, and is 0.27% higher than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 226 economies tracked on this platform, Australia ranks #141 on unemployment rate by latest value. It fell from 4.48% in the previous month, and compares with a year-earlier 4.08%.
What's driving it
Joblessness tracks the business cycle, labour-force participation and structural shifts in industry, and tends to lag changes in output.
Recent readings
| Period | Unemployment rate |
|---|---|
| May 2026 | 4.36% |
| Apr 2026 | 4.48% |
| Mar 2026 | 4.28% |
| Feb 2026 | 4.30% |
| Jan 2026 | 4.08% |
| Dec 2025 | 4.12% |
| Nov 2025 | 4.32% |
| Oct 2025 | 4.33% |
Data: Source: OECD (terms permit extract/distribute, incl. commercial, with citation). Figures carry an effective date; confirm with the source before relying on them.
Frequently asked questions
What Is the Unemployment Rate in Australia in 2026?
Australia's unemployment rate was 4.36% in May 2026, down from 4.48% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 4.08%.
Is the unemployment rate rising or falling in Australia?
It fell in the latest reading — 4.36% in May 2026 versus 4.48% a month earlier. Year on year it is higher.
What is unemployment rate?
It measures the share of the labour force that is without work but actively seeking a job.