empty
 
 

2026.05.2023:00:00UTC+00Australia’s Private Sector Activity Slips Back Into Contraction in May

Australia’s private sector momentum weakened in May, with the S&P Global Manufacturing & Services PMI falling to 47.80 from 50.40 in April 2026, sliding back below the 50-point threshold that separates expansion from contraction. The latest data, updated on 20 May 2026, indicate a month‑over‑month deterioration in business conditions after a marginally expansionary reading in the previous month.

The April 2026 composite PMI at 50.40 had signalled a slight improvement versus March, but May’s drop to 47.80 suggests renewed softness in overall activity across both manufacturing and services. On a month‑over‑month comparison basis, the “actual” May reading highlights a clear reversal from April’s modest growth trend, pointing to a more cautious operating environment for Australian businesses heading into mid‑2026.

  • Grand Choice
    Contest by
    InstaForex
    InstaForex always strives to help you
    fulfill your biggest dreams.
    JOIN CONTEST
  • Chancy Deposit
    Deposit your account with $3,000 and get $9000 more!
    In May we raffle $9000 within the Chancy Deposit campaign!
    Get a chance to win by depositing $3,000 to a trading account. Having fulfilled this condition, you become a campaign participant.
    JOIN CONTEST
  • Trade Wise, Win Device
    Top up your account with at least $500, sign up for the contest, and get a chance to win mobile devices.
    JOIN CONTEST
  • 30% Bonus
    Receive a 30% bonus every time you top up your account
    GET BONUS


Can't speak right now?
Ask your question in the chat.
Widget callback