Aust stocks close lower

The Australian stock market closed slightly lower after local data showed a swing to a trade deficit against analyst expectations.

At 1615 AEST official market close, the benchmark S&P/ASX200 index fell 0.37% to 5,142.5 points, while the broader All Ordinaries index lost 0.35% to 5,138.4 points.

IG analyst Chris Weston said the local market seemed lifeless today.

"This is more a function of traders booking some short-term profits in materials names, than concerns around the election," Mr Weston said.