The Composite Output Index rose to 55.5 in August, up from 53.8 in July, marking the eleventh consecutive monthly increase and the fastest growth since April 2022. Australia’s private sector maintained strong expansion, with the acceleration in business activity broad-based across sectors. New business orders increased at the sharpest pace in 40 months, supported in part by a rebound in exports. Companies stepped up hiring, which helped reduce the level of outstanding work. Business confidence also improved from July, reflecting optimism about the near-term outlook. On the price front, both input cost and output price inflation eased during the month, indicating moderated cost pressures. Overall, the data points to a resilient and expanding private sector in Australia.