The Sunshine Coast is out in front and Queensland as a State is leading national economic growth, according to ABS labour force figures.
Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson said that Sunshine Coast businesses have created more jobs than any other region in the latest ABS data which shows there are 11,300 more people in work in the region than 12 months ago. The unemployment rate has fallen 0.6 percentage points to 6.1%.
Ms Simpson said that Queensland had created more jobs than any other state over the past year.
“After some tough years for many businesses and job seekers, there is still a way to go but the positive figures are welcome and heading in the right direction,” Ms Simpson said.
“This State Government is unabashedly “pro-business” in tackling red tape and supporting the job creators who hold the key to unlocking job opportunities for our region.”
The ABS data also shows that Queensland dwelling approvals rose 3.8% in December, which is the highest level in six years and marks 24 consecutive months of increases. Building approvals on the Sunshine Coast have increased by an impressive 57.0 per cent in the 12 months to February 2014.
The State Government is continuing to support our construction sector, with more than 4,200 Great Start Grants of $15,000 already helping Queensland’s first time buyers. More than 300 Sunshine Coast families have taken the opportunity of these grants to help buy their first home.
“$5 million worth of grants for Sunshine Coast is leading to many millions more being injected into the local construction industry,” Ms Simpson said.
“Only a Can-Do Newman Government can get Queensland back on track and ensure we remain a great state with great opportunity.”