Today, Shadow Treasurer Louise Staley slammed the Andrews Labor Government for celebrating low regional unemployment rates while trying to hide the truth behind the numbers.
This month’s ABS regional labour force data reveals that while the unemployment rate may be low, the labour force in regional Victoria has fallen.
Since last year there are now 3,506 fewer people employed on a part-time basis and the total labour force has shrunk in the same period, by almost 4,500 people.
The figures show a significant decline in the labour force and a startling 1.1% drop in participation rates.
Labour shortages are having a real impact on regional communities that rely on a strong mix of part-time and full-time workers, particularly in agriculture and health services.
Daniel Andrews’ Labor is too focused on major projects in Melbourne, without any strategy to decentralise the Victorian economy and create genuine employment growth in the regions.
Comments attributable to Shadow Treasurer, Louise Staley:
“Far from a jobs boom in regional Victoria, we are seeing a drain on the regional workforce as more and more people travel or move for work.
As locals leave town for work they take their buying power with them, and local businesses suffer.
The Premier for Melbourne needs to take real action to support local jobs and ensure the future for towns and cities in regional Victoria.”