The Aussie market is holding up well so far today, currently just half a percent underwater despite the horror leads provided by international markets overnight.

Despite the only modest decline, every sector is underwater except for the telcos.

The reason for this, of course, is the almost 5% jump in Telstra after the company reported better-than-expected full-year results.

The other big news today has been the surprise increase in the latest unemployment numbers.

The jobless rate rose from 4.9% to 5.1% last month, with employers growing more cautious about hiring full-time staff.

The numbers had a positive impact on the market, however, as they increase the likelihood that the RBA will cut interest rates to help support a slowing economy.

Around the region, Asian markets are mixed; the Hang Seng is down 1% whilst the Shanghai Composite is up 0.8%.