SENATOR THE HON JANE HUME
DEPUTY LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION
SHADOW MINISTER FOR EMPLOYMENT AND INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS
SHADOW MINISTER FOR PRODUCTIVITY AND DEREGULATION
SENATOR FOR VICTORIA

THE HON TIM WILSON MP
SHADOW TREASURER
MEMBER FOR GOLDSTEIN

MEDIA RELEASE

19 February 2026

AUSTRALIANS ARE WORKING HARDER BUT GOING BACKWARDS UNDER LABOR

Today’s Labour Force data will bring little comfort to Australians who are working harder but going backwards under this Albanese Government.

The latest Labour Force data shows the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained at 4.1 per cent in January.

Australians in jobs is always a good thing, but it does not take away from the fact that they are working harder while real wages are going backwards.

Shadow Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations Senator Jane Hume said Australians are suffering the consequences of Labor’s failed economic management.

“Australians are doing their bit. They’re turning up to work, they’re taking on extra hours, and in many cases they’re juggling multiple jobs, but they’re still falling behind. That is Labor’s economic record.

“Productivity has gone backwards, business confidence is weak, and real wages are shrinking. That’s not a recipe for sustainable economic growth, it's a warning sign.

“Australians deserve an economy where effort is rewarded. Right now, too many families are putting in the hours but just aren’t getting ahead. That’s why the Coalition is focused on restoring Australia’s living standards, improving productivity and growing the economy for the next generation,” Senator Hume said.

Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson said Labor’s economic settings are forcing Australians to work harder for less and making life more difficult for struggling small businesses.

“The fact that the average Australian worker is poorer than they were 12 months ago is an indictment on Jim Chalmers.

“Labor talks a big game on jobs growth but the fact is that the public sector is crowding out the private sector, making it harder for businesses, particularly small businesses, to find staff.

“The government is propping up job numbers by pouring debt petrol onto the inflation fire through spending, while businesses can’t afford to hire”.

“A low unemployment rate provides little comfort to Australians if their pay packet isn’t keeping up with the cost of groceries, rent and electricity.

“Australians are paying the price for a big spending Treasurer, through higher inflation and lower living standards. People are looking for hope right now and that’s what the Coalition will deliver,” Mr Wilson said.

Only the Coalition will protect Australians’ way of life and restore their standard of living.

ENDS.