Australia's labour market remained resilient at the start of 2026, with a record number of people in full-time jobs in January, unemployment remaining low and participation staying close to record highs.
There are now 150,200 more Australians in work than a year ago, reflecting continued demand for workers across the country.
Employment increased by 17,800 in January to a record high of 14,703,800.
Full-time employment rose over the month by 50,500, to a record high of 10,155,500 in January.
Australia's unemployment rate was steady in January at 4.1 per cent and remains low by historical standards.
The participation rate was also unchanged over the month at 66.7 per cent, remaining close to its highest level on record, showing Australians are staying engaged in work or job-seeking.
Quotes Attributable to Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Amanda Rishworth:
"More than 1.2 million jobs have been created since May 2022. Employment has increased by 9.1 per cent over this period - a higher rate than any major advanced economy.
"Australia has a record number of people in jobs, unemployment remains low and participation is near its highest level on record. That tells us Australians are finding opportunities and staying engaged in the workforce.
"Women's participation remains high, with a record number of women in work and contributing more hours. That's good for families, communities and the economy.
"Our focus is fairness at work, secure jobs, safe workplaces and decent pay. That's how we support families, build skills and lift living standards.
"We know some Australians are still doing it tough. We'll keep working to create more jobs, lift wages and ensure people have the security they deserve at work."
Quotes attributable to Treasurer, Jim Chalmers:
"This data is yet another reminder of the resilience of our labour market at a challenging time for the global economy.
"The unemployment rate has remained steady at 4.1 per cent, meaning it continues to remain at very low levels by historical standards and participation remains close to record highs.
"Under our government we have seen the lowest average unemployment for any government in 50 years.
"It's encouraging to see more than 50,000 new full-time jobs created in January.
"Under this Government's watch more than 1.2 million jobs have been created - stronger employment growth than every major advanced economy - with eight out of ten of those new jobs in the private sector, and most of them full-time.
"As the Reserve Bank Governor said last week, the state of the labour market is good news for our economy, especially compared to other countries grappling with much higher unemployment."
