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Australia’s labor market unexpectedly contracted in May, raising expectations for potential interest rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics released Thursday showed total employment declined by 2,500 jobs in May, sharply contrasting with April’s gain of 87,600 jobs and missing forecasts for a 20,600 increase.
The unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.1%, aligning with market expectations. Meanwhile, the participation rate—reflecting the proportion of the working-age population in the labor force—held steady at 67.0%, slightly below the projected 67.1%.
The weaker-than-expected jobs data signals a cooling labor market, reinforcing the case for further monetary easing. The RBA had already lowered interest rates twice this year, citing progress in bringing inflation within its 2–3% target range. However, the central bank has emphasized a data-dependent stance, especially amid rising global trade tensions driven by renewed U.S. tariffs.
Economists now anticipate the RBA could initiate another rate cut as early as August, though it is expected to move cautiously. The latest figures add to signs that Australia’s economic momentum is moderating, potentially giving the central bank more room to stimulate growth.
