Western Australia is basking in the glow of impressive employment figures, with the unemployment rate falling to a remarkable 3.6 per cent in September. This figure not only stands out as the lowest among all states but also sits well below the national average of 4.1 per cent. These latest statistics from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) highlight an extraordinary period of low unemployment, marking the equal longest stretch recorded in the past 46 years of data collection.
The current job market scenario in WA is noteworthy, as the unemployment rate has remained below the four per cent threshold for an astonishing 35 out of the last 36 months. This achievement recalls the last time WA experienced such sustained low unemployment, which was during the tenure of the WA Labor government between March 2006 and January 2009. Following that period, the state faced economic challenges under the leadership of the Liberals and Nationals.
Adding to the positive news, employment figures have surged, with WA recording a total of 1.62 million employed residents as of September, a new all-time high. The state witnessed an increase of 8,283 jobs in just one month, reflecting a growth rate of 0.5 per cent. This upward trend underscores the resilience and dynamism of the WA economy, which has experienced remarkable growth since the onset of the pandemic. In fact, WA’s economy has expanded by an impressive 23.9 per cent from pre-pandemic levels, growing around 70 per cent faster than the national economy.
Since Labor came to power in 2017, over 321,000 jobs have been created, resulting in a workforce increase of nearly 25 per cent. This significant job growth highlights the government’s commitment to fostering a robust economic environment.
Treasurer Rita Saffioti expressed her enthusiasm about the latest employment figures, stating, “These numbers again highlight the continued dominance of WA’s economy.” She further praised the achievement of securing the equal longest sustained period of low unemployment, a feat that has not been accomplished since the last Labor government was in office.
Saffioti’s comments reflect a sense of pride in the state’s job creation initiatives, noting that the recent figures demonstrate a growing workforce that is vital for the economic health of WA. “Creating jobs for Western Australia has become a hallmark of our Government,” she affirmed, adding, “It’s also fantastic to see another 8,283 jobs created last month and over 321,000 total jobs created since 2017.”
The impact of these developments extends beyond mere statistics; they translate into tangible benefits for families and communities across the state. With a record 1.62 million Western Australians now employed, more individuals are able to support their families and contribute to the economy’s growth.
However, the Treasurer also expressed concerns about potential risks to this thriving job market. She cautioned against the possibility of a change in government, describing the Liberals and Nationals as “inexperienced and dysfunctional.” Saffioti warned that their return to power could reverse the progress made in WA’s economic landscape, stating that such a scenario would send the state backwards ahead of the upcoming elections in March.
As WA continues to navigate the post-pandemic recovery, the latest employment figures offer a sense of optimism. The state’s ability to maintain low unemployment rates while achieving record job growth showcases the effectiveness of current policies and the resilience of its workforce. As Western Australians look to the future, the commitment to sustaining and enhancing this momentum remains a critical focus for the government and its citizens alike.
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