Unemployment rate rose to 4.5% in April, highest since Nov 2021, up from 4.3% in March.
Total employment fell by 18,600 jobs, missing forecasts for a 16,700 increase and reversing a prior 17,900‑job gain.
Female jobs dropped sharply, with full‑time falling 19,000 and part‑time 13,000, marking the first female employment decline since Aug 2025.
RBA lifted cash rate to 4.35%; analysts say data may prompt a June pause but a possible 25 bp Q3 hike.