Jobs up for grabs in Australia slide 18% q-o-q in 3Q16

It's to do with the fiscal year.

Australia’s first full quarter since its new fiscal year began in July saw an 18% decrease in jobs available, quarter-on-quarter.

According to a research note from Morgan McKinley, Australia’s Q2 spike in jobs available absorbed the end of fiscal year sprint to fill positions, so as not to lose them in the following year.

Further, having avoided slipping into recession for over two decades, the Australian economy is ticking along, but a general malaise and political volatility make for a confused outlook.

Australia’s new Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull was sworn in in July, making him the fourth person since 2013 to hold the position. Turnbull’s narrow election win raised concerns of continued political instability.

Adding to the confused outlook is the Australian dollar’s strength, which is contributing to a revival in organisations looking offshore for investments, while the ongoing dominance of the Big Four domestic players make it difficult for international institutions to get a foothold on the national market.