Employment Growth Amidst Sectoral Struggles

The latest employment data reveals a mixed picture for June 2025, with the number of employed individuals rising by 183,000. This marks the sixth consecutive month of positive growth, showcasing the resilience of the job market. However, not all sectors shared in this prosperity, with youth employment and manufacturing facing significant challenges.

Youth and Manufacturing: The Weak Links

Despite overall growth, the youth employment rate saw a concerning drop, decreasing by 173,000 jobs. This marks the 14th consecutive month of decline, highlighting a persistent issue in the job market. Similarly, the manufacturing sector struggled, with employment falling by 83,000 jobs, a 1.9% year-on-year decline.

Sector-Specific Trends

On a brighter note, sectors such as health and social welfare services, professional, scientific and technical services, and educational services experienced significant growth. These areas benefited from government-led job policies, underscoring the impact of targeted interventions.

Looking Ahead

With ongoing trade frictions and tariff negotiations, the future of employment in certain sectors remains uncertain. The decline in manufacturing and construction jobs, coupled with the challenges faced by the youth, calls for continued monitoring and innovative solutions.