New Trends In ACT Employment Cause For Concern

Wayne Berry - Opposition Spokesperson on Employment

Media Statement - 8 June 2000

The Australian Bureau of Statistics Labour Force figures for May 2000 hold some concerns trends for the ACT labour market, Labor Shadow Employment Minister Wayne Berry said today.

"There is a slight rise in unemployment to 5.5% - another 200 unemployed people in the ACT.

"Underlying this trend is a rise in unemployment for women. This is revealed in the falling part-time employment levels. Among the good news there are 700 new full time jobs, but the increase in total jobs is only 200, this means 500 fewer part-time jobs.

"Another aspect of the figures released by the ABS is the increase in Canberrans (aged 15 and over). In the last 6 months our population has grown by 3600 but there are only 1400 new jobs. This means that demand is outstripping supply.

"Economists have warned that our economy will slow in the next 6-12 months when Olympic activity ceases and the impact of the GST bites, we need strategies in place to deal with the downturn and create new employment opportunities for the ACT.

"I call on the Carnell Government to outline the strategies they have in place to deal with the expected downturn but please, no more Bruce Stadiums or Futsal Slabs," Mr Berry concluded.