Construction sector jobs dwindled in November for the 16th month in a row, according to an industry survey that also showed a steeper slide in new orders for homes.

The Australian Industry Group/Housing Industry Association Performance of Construction Index (PCI) report released on Friday said activity fell 3.9 points on the previous month to 40.0 – a decline that leaves the measure well below the 50-point mark separating expansion and contraction.

“Unfortunately, the further drop in new orders is pointing to the likelihood of further falls (in employment) in the months ahead,” AiG policy head Peter Burn said.