The rise means the total number of unemployed Australians is up to 1,254,000, according to Roy Morgan chief executive Michele Levine.

“Although there have been many jobs created over the last year, this hasn’t reduced unemployment, which has increased by 83,000 to 1,254,000 (9.2 per cent of the workforce) as more people enter the workforce looking for work,” she said.

An additional 8.4 per cent of the workforce is underemployed, comprising 1,275,000 Australians, down 27,000 on a year ago, said Ms Levine. Underemployment is defined as those looking for more work, or working part-time. 

What will kickstart the jobs market?

Roy Morgan believes the recent tax cuts that have been passed will help stimulate the economy and create further working opportunities. 

Middle-income earners will receive a tax break for the financial year just gone, meaning it’s already up for grabs this tax time. This was a key election promise from Scott Morrison before Australia went to the polls in May. 

“There are many commentators expressing concern about the state of the Australian economy. However, with significant income tax cuts being legislated by the new government and back-to-back interest rate cuts by the RBA in June and July, there is an increasing amount of stimulus in the Australian economy to support businesses and therefore increase employment opportunities,” said Ms Levine. 

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

About the author

Cameron is a journalist for Momentum Media's nestegg and Smart Property Investment. He enjoys giving Aussies practical financial tips and tricks to help grow their wealth and achieve financial independence. As a self-confessed finance nerd, Cameron enjoys chatting with industry experts and commentators to leverage their insights to grow your portfolio.

About the author

Cameron is a journalist for Momentum Media's nestegg and Smart Property Investment. He enjoys giving Aussies practical financial tips and tricks to help grow their wealth and achieve financial independence. As a self-confessed finance nerd, Cameron enjoys chatting with industry experts and commentators to leverage their insights to grow your portfolio.

Cameron is a journalist for Momentum Media's nestegg and Smart Property Investment. He enjoys giving Aussies practical financial tips and tricks to help grow their wealth and achieve financial independence. As a self-confessed finance nerd, Cameron enjoys chatting with industry experts and commentators to leverage their insights to grow your portfolio.

more on this topic

Retirement Planning

Young educators prioritise retirement over home ownership and family planning

In a significant shift from traditional financial priorities, young educators in Australia are placing greater emphasis on saving for retirement over other life milestones such as home ownership, ...Read more

Retirement Planning

Retirement happiness on the rise, but cost-of-living worries cloud confidence

Australians aged 60 and over are generally positive about their retirement, but concerns about the rising cost of living continue to impact their lifestyle and financial security, according to the ...Read more

Retirement Planning

Australia's retirement system nears tipping point as withdrawals surpass contributions

State Street has unveiled a significant new research series, "Reimagining Retirement," which highlights a critical juncture for Australia's retirement system. The study, released on 1 April 2026, ...Read more

Retirement Planning

Online wills initiative aims to boost superannuation and retirement engagement

In a bid to increase engagement with superannuation and retirement planning, Aware Super has expanded its online wills service, following a successful pilot program. The initiative, launched in ...Read more

Retirement Planning

New digital platform revolutionises retirement planning for Aware Super members

A groundbreaking digital platform by Aware Super is transforming the way retirees plan and manage their pensions, with significant results already seen in the pilot phase. The tool, named Retirement ...Read more

Retirement Planning

The retirement mortgage squeeze: how one bank turned a demographic risk into a strategic edge

An increasing share of Australians are entering their 60s still paying off mortgages, just as living costs and interest charges stay stubbornly high. For banks, super funds, retailers and ...Read more

Retirement Planning

The retirement mortgage crunch: what it means for banks, retailers and policy in Australia

A growing share of Australians are carrying mortgages into their 60s and beyond, colliding with persistent cost-of-living pressures and a “slow grind” macro outlook. This isn’t just a social story; it ...Read more

Retirement Planning

Majority of Australians still unsure about their retirement prospects

A recent survey conducted by MFS Investment Management® has shed light on the ongoing uncertainty faced by many Australians regarding their retirement plans. Despite a slight increase in confidence ...Read more