MARIBYRNONG is in the midst of a downward jobs spiral as the west bears the brunt of the state’s employment decline.
Almost 400 locals joined the jobless queue in the past 12 months, taking the number of unemployed Maribyrnong residents to almost 3000.
‘Small-area’ labour market figures for the December 2011 quarter show the area’s adjusted unemployment rate has ballooned from 6.4 per cent to 7.4 per cent since last July, far above the statewide average of 5percent.
The slide looks set to continue as manufacturing is pounded by the high Australian dollar, forcing jobs and investment offshore.
Last week, Innovation, Services and Small Business Minister Louise Asher opened a Western Metropolitan Victorian Government Business Office (VGBO) in Tottenham.
“The western metropolitan region plays a key role in Victoria’s economic growth and is one of Australia’s most significant growth corridors,” Ms Asher said.
“It is also a key Victorian manufacturing, transport and logistics centre.”
She said businesses in the west were “doing a tremendous job” despite significant challenges.
The new office would support them in a much more direct and effective way.
“The new Tottenham office will be an important first point of contact for businesses in the region seeking to invest, export and resolve issues relating to business growth,” Ms Asher said.
The office will be staffed by business development managers and representatives from other agencies, who will meet face-to-face with companies.
Manufacturing, Exports and Trade Minister Richard Dalla-Riva said manufacturers faced significant challenges including a high dollar, higher-than-average interest rates and tough global competition.
Shadow Treasurer Tim Holding pointed to the 2011-12 mid-year financial report as proof the state government was failing workers.
“Victoria’s financial position is deteriorating, public investment is declining, jobs are being slashed, debt is rapidly rising and Victorians
have nothing to show for it,” Mr Holding
said.
