By Ewen McRae
The unemployment rate in Melton has improved dramatically in the past 12 months according to new figures, but it is still almost three times larger than the national average.
New figures from the federal government stated the unemployment rate in Melton dropped from 18.2 per cent in March 2018 to 15.1 per cent in March this year, equating to 235 less unemployed in the suburb.
Melton South also improved from 14 per cent to 10.5 in the same time frame, while Caroline Springs fell from 6.6 per cent to 4.6 per cent.
Melton mayor Bob Turner said it was good to see the unemployment numbers trending downwards, but said more needed to be done to create jobs locally.
“It’s really pleasing to see employment rates improving,” Cr Turner said.
“However, with 77 per cent of our local workforce leaving the area for work each day and a booming population, we need more local jobs for local people.
“Employment and economic investment is a major focus for council.
“There are huge opportunities for major industries to capitalise on Melton’s prime business location with access to major road, rail and port facilities and a growing skilled workforce.”
While the unemployment numbers are improving, most suburbs are still well above the latest national unemployment rate of
5.2 per cent.
Cr Turner said there were projects on the horizon that would help lower the unemployment rate even further.
“We actively work to support local businesses, create employment precincts for business growth, facilitate local job creation and partner in training and career initiatives,” he said.
“The state government is investing in transformational projects such as the Western Rail Plan and the proposed new public hospital which will provide a strong environment for skilled and professional job opportunities.
“We are also advocating to the state government to improve public transport networks and the creation of local tertiary education options.”
