The S&P Global Australia Manufacturing PMI rose to 51.7 in July 2026 from 51.5 in the previous month, according to flash estimates, signaling a fourth consecutive month of expansion. The latest reading also marked the strongest growth since January, supported by the first increase in new orders in five months, driven by stronger domestic demand and new client wins, while employment rose at the fastest pace since April. However, export orders continued to decline, reflecting persistent weakness in external demand. On the pricing front, input cost inflation eased to its softest level since February despite higher fuel, oil, raw material, and wage costs, while manufacturers raised selling prices at a slower pace than in June. Looking ahead, business confidence improved only slightly and remained subdued amid ongoing economic uncertainty.