Australia’s unemployment rate jumps to 4.5% with markets slashing chance of more interest rate hikes
Australia's unemployment rate has increased to 4.5%, marking the highest level in over four years. This unexpected rise in joblessness may lead the Reserve Bank of Australia to postpone a potential interest rate hike. Economists are expressing concerns about the labor market's stability amid rising inflation and economic slowdown.
- ▪The unemployment rate rose from 4.3% to 4.5% in April 2026.
- ▪The number of employed people fell by 18,600, the first decline this year.
- ▪The Reserve Bank of Australia may delay a fourth interest rate hike due to these labor market changes.
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The rise in unemployment will provide the RBA with more reason to hold off on a fourth interest rate hike, as central bank officials juggle worries about spiking inflation and the slowing economy. Photograph: Steven Saphore/AAPView image in fullscreenThe rise in unemployment will provide the RBA with more reason to hold off on a fourth interest rate hike, as central bank officials juggle worries about spiking inflation and the slowing economy. Photograph: Steven Saphore/AAPUnemploymentAustralia’s unemployment rate jumps to 4.5% in ‘tentative signs labour market is buckling’ Surprise rise in jobless rate will give Reserve Bank more reason to delay another interest rate hike at June meeting Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates Get our breaking news email, free app or daily…
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