Australian Shares Close Lower as ASX 200 Falls 0.82% to 8,428 on Mining Weakness

The Australian share market extended its recent losses Friday, March 20, 2026, with the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 index declining 69.4 points or 0.82% to close at 8,428.40 — its lowest finish in four months and marking a third straight weekly drop amid persistent Middle East tensions and commodity price pressure.

ASX headquarters at 39 Martin Place, Sydney

Trading volume reached around 2.39 billion shares, with the index ranging from a low of 8,427.20 to a high of 8,497.80 before settling lower. The broader All Ordinaries index fell 62.4 points or 0.72% to 8,628.30. Year-to-date in 2026, the ASX 200 is down 3.28%, though it remains 6.27% higher than a year ago.