Minister for Innovation and Skills David Pisoni has characterised the latest ABS Labour Force figures as disappointing and underscores the importance of the State Government's $4 billion fiscal stimulus to combat the economic impact of COVID-19.
"The State Government's $4 billion fiscal stimulus is designed to counter the economic impact of COVID-19 over the short, medium and long term to ensure South Australia's economy remains on an even keel throughout the pandemic," said Minister Pisoni
"The State Government understands the depth of the economic challenges posed by the pandemic and is committed to leading the state through these significant challenges.
"The ongoing impact of the pandemic means that the employment figures will continue to bounce around until will are able to return to normal economic conditions.
"The ABS figures show that over the longer term the trend in employment is positive and that South Australians should continue to remain optimistic about the state's economic prospects.
"Since the depth of the pandemic in May employment in South Australia has grown by around 4000 a month with 31,800 more people in work.
"It is particularly encouraging that of those new jobs created since May 17,400 are full time positions.
"The Marshall Government's $16.7 billion investment in roads, education, sporting and health infrastructure will drive further full-time job creation into the future.
"Money is also being invested to protect existing jobs with reductions in payroll tax, land tax and grants of up to the $20,000 available for eligible small businesses.
The latest statistics from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) show that South Australia is leading the nation for growth in commencements of apprenticeships and traineeships.
"South Australia registered a 7.8 per cent increase in the number of apprentices and trainees whilst the rest of Australia suffered from a 3.9 per cent decline in the same period," said Minister Pisoni.
"The Marshall Government's record $280 investment in skills training has driven South Australia to the number one amongst the states and territories for growth in earn as you learn training.
