Jobs and Skills Australia’s latest International Labour Market Update points to a gradual softening in global labour markets and economic conditions.
While global gross domestic product (GDP) proved more resilient than expected in 2025, analysis from the OECD and World Bank highlights growing risks. Higher tariff rates and ongoing policy uncertainty may place pressure on investment, trade growth and broader economic activity.
Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to feature prominently in international research. Recent publications from the UN and OECD suggest that AI could lift productivity growth as new technologies are adopted more widely, and faster than previously anticipated. This potential is beginning to be reflected in recent data, with labour productivity in the Euro Area rising by 0.7% and 1.1% in the EU over the year to the September quarter 2025.
The update also provides snapshots of labour market conditions across key regions and countries, including the Euro Area, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea and the United Kingdom.
For more insights, read the full report.
If you have any questions or comments or want to know more, email: migration@jobsandskills.gov.au.
