Monday 22 July 2013

 

STATE OF THE STATES: NSW NUMBER ONE ON JOBS, HOME BUILDING ACTIVITY CONTINUES TO RISE

 

Treasurer Mike Baird today said the latest CommSec State of the States report confirms the strength of NSW’s jobs market, which received the top ranking for its low unemployment rate over the past quarter.

 

The CommSec report shows NSW has moved up two places since the previous quarter, ranking fourth among the states and territories overall.

 

“Today’s report shows more positive signs for economic activity in our state,” said Mr Baird.

 

“Not only has NSW boosted its position by two places in the past quarter, but our state is now leading the pack on the measure of jobs.

 

“This follows the decade lows NSW experienced under State Labor, where NSW consistently lagged the other states, and unemployment was significantly higher.”

 

Mr Baird said the report also shows significant improvements in the NSW housing sector, leading NSW to jump two places on the measure of dwelling starts.

 

“Today’s report confirms the turnaround we are seeing in our critical housing sector. Dwelling starts are over 16 per cent above decade averages, which is further proof that the NSW Government’s targeted housing incentives are working,” said Mr Baird.

 

“We are confident that the housing initiatives announced in last month’s Budget, together with the low interest rates we are experiencing, will continue to support more housing across the State.

 

“It’s clear that ongoing economic uncertainty continues to hinder economic activity, but today’s report shows our investment in the key drivers of our economy is succeeding.

 

“As NSW continues to claw its way back up the leader board, the O’Farrell Government will continue to stimulate growth, housing and jobs through our record investment in key infrastructure and Jobs Action Plan,” Mr Baird said.