Victoria has recorded the lowest regional unemployment rate in Australia, sitting at 2.9 per cent while the nation is at 3.1 per cent, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
The ABS report said unemployment in most areas of Regional Victoria is now less than half of what it was in 2014.
A statement from the Andrews Labor government said this reflects its steadfast backing of workers and businesses.
In the Warrnambool and South West region the unemployment rate is 1.3 per cent while in Bendigo, it is 1.7 per cent. Ballarat sits at 2 per cent while Geelong recorded a 2.4 per cent rating.
Regional jobs have jumped by a total of 12 per cent to approximately 740,000.
Victoria has seen the creation of almost 600,000 jobs since November 2014, with its State Final Demand growth for 2021-2022 sitting at 40 per cent higher than the national average, ABS reported.
The latest Deloitte Access Economics Business Outlook forecast continued strong growth with gross state product tipped to expand by 3.7 per cent for the current financial year.
The NAB Monthly Business Survey for September also showed business confidence in Victoria was the highest among all the states while business conditions improved strongly and were close to the best record.
“It’s fantastic to see so many people in work in regional areas and the regional unemployment rate continuing to be the lowest in the nation,” said Treasurer Tim Pallas.
“The recovery from the pandemic has been statewide and that is reflected in these jobs numbers and the confidence that people have across the state.”
