Queensland’s unemployment hits new record low: Bligh

Queensland has again produced its best monthly unemployment figures since at least 1978, Acting Premier, Treasurer and Minister for infrastructure Anna Bligh said today.

“This is more good news and a continued vote of confidence in the Queensland economy.

“This is good for business, good for confidence and most of all good news for families.

“It again reaffirms we are the nation’s jobs engine room.”

Queensland’s trend unemployment remained at 4.3% (trend) in October.

“Over the year, Queensland recorded an increase in full-time employment of 72,300 which accounted for 37.7% of full-time jobs created nationally.

“Queensland’s employment growth across the year was 4.2% - compared with only 2.6% nationally.

“Part-time employment in the State increased 12,300 over the year.

“The particiaption rate – the share of the total population wanting to be in the labour force – remained at a historic high of 67.2% in September.

“This is great news for jobs seekers and it is great news for our economy,” said the Treasurer.

“With unemployment at continued record lows and the paricipation rate at record highs, a greater share of the Queensland population is in employment than ever before.

“It is another great jobs day in Queensland,” she said.

November 9 2006

Media contact: Deputy Premier’s Office 3224 4379