Australia’s manufacturing sector deteriorated sharply in March 2026, with the Australian Industry Group (AIG) Manufacturing Index dropping to -27.9 from -15.6 in February. The latest reading, updated on 31 March 2026, signals a deepening contraction in industrial activity across the country.
The March figure marks a significant worsening in conditions over just one month, suggesting that pressures on Australian manufacturers have intensified. The move from -15.6 to -27.9 underscores a broader slowdown in the sector, with the index pointing to weaker output and ongoing challenges for producers heading into the second quarter of 2026.
The data for March 2026 reinforces concerns about the health of Australia’s industrial base, as the manufacturing index remains firmly in negative territory and continues to trend downward from February’s already weak level.
