Gutwein hails jobs figures

THE State Government has hailed an increase in jobs — even though latest data shows no improvement in the state’s unemployment rate.

Figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed 1200 people found work in June with 800 of those picking up full-time work. But unemployment remained stable at 5.8 per cent.

A record 245,600 people are now employed in Tasmania, a fact championed by Treasurer Peter Gutwein.

There also was an increase in 800 fulltime jobs

“We are seeing industries like tourism, hospitality, retail, building and construction and agriculture going from strength to strength,” he said, adding more than 10,000 jobs had been created since his party took office three years ago.

Shadow treasurer Scott Bacon said the figures were “encouraging” but called on the Government to increase its infrastructure commitments.

The participation rate, the number of people in work or actively seeking work, increased in June to 61 per cent, a 0.9 percentage point rise since March.

Deloitte managing partner in Tasmania Carl Harris said the participation rate increase was of particular interest.

“This rise was largely driven by an increase in female participation, which continues its upward trend since October last year,” he said. “For Tasmania to raise the bar in our low participation outcomes the number of working females is one very important factor.”

Mr Harris said both male and female participation would be an ongoing challenge until education and training retention rates were improved.

Peter Gutwein