FX.co ★ Australia Factory Growth Hits 6-Month High

The S&P Global Australia Manufacturing PMI rose to 51.7 in July 2026 from 51.5 in June, according to flash estimates, indicating a fourth consecutive month of expansion. This was the strongest pace of growth since January, underpinned by the first increase in new orders in five months, supported by firmer domestic demand and new client wins. Employment also grew at the fastest rate since April.

However, export orders continued to fall, highlighting ongoing weakness in external demand. On the pricing side, input cost inflation eased to its lowest level since February, despite higher fuel, oil, raw material, and wage costs, while manufacturers raised their selling prices more slowly than in June.

Looking ahead, business confidence improved only marginally and remained muted, reflecting persistent economic uncertainty.