Aust stocks fall slightly at noon

The Australian stock market fell slightly at noon but narrowed morning losses after the release of better than expected unemployment data.

At 1205 AEDT, the benchmark S&P/ASX200 index fell 0.21% to 5,142.1 points, while the broader All Ordinaries index slipped 0.2% to 5,141.3 points.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics released September labour force data, with the unemployment rate falling to 5.6% against expectations it would hold steady at 5.8%.

NAB chief executive Cameron Clyne is also scheduled to deliver a speech at a Trans-Tasman Business Circle event in Melbourne.

Toll road owner Transurban Group holds its annual general meeting, also in Melbourne.

Yesterday the Australian share market edged higher, with the benchmark S&P/ASX200 index adding 3.6 points to 5,153 and the broader All Ordinaries index gaining 3.5 points to 5,151.6.