Australia’s labour market remains resilient, but the latest Australian Labour Market for Migrants report shows some signs of softening are beginning to emerge across parts of the economy.
While Australia’s economy continues to perform strongly overall, the report notes that labour market demand has eased in some industries over the 12 months to February 2026. Trend employment declined in Wholesale Trade, Manufacturing, and Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing, suggesting a gradual slowdown in these areas.
The report’s Hot Topic also explores where migrants are living and working across Australia, and differences in employment outcomes.
One finding is that female migrants experienced higher unemployment rates than male migrants in every state and territory except Tasmania and the Northern Territory, highlighting workforce participation challenges for women in many parts of the country.
Migration patterns also remained concentrated in Australia’s larger states, with New South Wales and Victoria recording the highest levels of Net Overseas Migration (NOM) in 2024-25. Tasmania and the Northern Territory recorded the lowest NOM levels.
This quarterly report is designed to support people considering temporary or permanent work in Australia, as well as organisations assisting migrants and visa applicants, the report offers valuable insights into current labour market conditions and migration trends.
For more, download the full report.
The ALMM report provides high-level data and analysis on the Australian labour market, to better inform people interested in working in Australia on a temporary or permanent basis, and organisations providing services to migrants and potential visa applicants.
