• 2017 was the best year on record for jobs growth.
• The ABS labour force figures show that jobs continue to be created. Nearly 80 per cent of the jobs created in the past year have been full time.
• Employment is now at a record high of just over 12.5 million. In the final year of the former Labor Government 17,000 full-time jobs disappeared.
• More people in work in the New England North West region

The Coalition Government has delivered on a significant commitment with one million more Australians in work than there were when elected.

Member for New England Barnaby Joyce said one million more jobs means at least one million livelihoods improved.

“This is an excellent outcome for Australian families and local communities in the electorate,” Mr Joyce said.

“Locally here in the New England North West region we’ve seen an annual change of 1.1% decrease in the unemployment rate to 5.9%.

“It builds on the progress we’re making to move people off welfare and into work with more than 1300 wage subsidy agreements delivered, nearly half of which are for our unemployed youth.

“It reflects the hard work of local businesses and the Government’s strong economic management. Our plan is working.”

Minister for Jobs and Innovation, Michaelia Cash, said since coming into office in 2013, the Coalition has focussed on the right economic policies and market conditions to boost jobs.

“Thriving businesses create jobs and give Australians the opportunity to work,” Minister Cash said. “The Government’s role is to create the right economic conditions so that businesses of all sizes can prosper, grow and hire more Australians.”

Job creation does not happen by accident. Over the last five years, the Coalition Government has:

•           delivered personal and small and medium business tax cuts;

•           delivered more trade deals, meaning more exports and more jobs; and

•           acted to bring down the cost of living with our energy reforms.

 (ENDS)