Australia loses 39,300 jobs in September, with unemployment at 4.7%
The ABS reports employment fell by 39,300 in September 2026 to 14,782,700. The unemployment rate was 4.7%, and the participation rate slipped to 66.8%.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported on 15 October 2026 that employment fell by 39,300 in September, to 14,782,700 people. The unemployment rate was 4.7%, and the participation rate slipped to 66.8%.
The figures
- Employment: 14,782,700 in September, down from 14,822,000 in August
- Unemployment rate: 4.7%
- Participation rate: 66.8%
Employment figures can be volatile, and the ABS publishes a trend series alongside the seasonally adjusted one. Both are useful, but the trend is the steadier guide to direction.
Reading it
Because participation also slipped, part of the drop in jobs did not show up as higher unemployment: some people left the labour force. The Reserve Bank raised its cash rate to 4.60% in September (report), so the labour data are one input to its next decision.
For inflation, see Australia's August CPI. For the previous labour report, see Australia's unemployment in August. Live prices: AUD/USD.
Sources
Common questions
How many jobs did Australia lose in September 2026?
Employment fell by 39,300 to 14,782,700, according to the ABS.
What was Australia's unemployment rate in September 2026?
The unemployment rate was 4.7%, with the participation rate at 66.8%.
Why does the participation rate matter?
It shows how many people are working or looking for work, so a fall can keep the unemployment rate lower than the jobs figure suggests.
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