The S&P Global Australia Manufacturing PMI registered 51.6 in December 2025, easing from the flash estimate of 52.2 but steady against November. It remained at its highest in three months, as both output and new orders rose, though at slower rates, while foreign sales slipped for a fourth consecutive month amid overseas budget constraints. Meantime, employment grew at the fastest pace in nine months. However, overall stocks of purchases edged lower for a third straight month. Supplier delivery times lengthened at the sharpest pace since November 2024, driven by supply shortages and logistical delays. On the price front, input cost inflation accelerated on higher raw material and freight expenses, prompting further, though below-average output price increases. Finally, business sentiment strengthened to a four-month high, buoyed by expectations of product launches and expansion plans.