The Allan Labor Government is driving jobs creation in regional Victoria, with the total number of Victorians employed in the regions hitting a new record high.

Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) figures released today show that an additional 11,000 people found jobs in the regions in April, boosting the total number of regional Victorians in work to a record 839,500.

Under the Labor Government, Victoria’s regional unemployment rate remains at a historically low 3.8 per cent, driven by a strong economy fuelling business and jobs growth across the state.

Unemployment in many Victorian regions is less than half of what it was in 2014 when the Labor Government took office.

The ABS data confirms continuing low jobless rates across many regions, including 3.1 per cent in Ballarat and Bendigo and 2.2 per cent in Warrnambool and South West.

Since the 2014 election, almost 800,000 new jobs have been created across the state, and there are a record number of Victorians in jobs.

The Victorian economy expanded by 9.1 per cent in the past two years, surpassing New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, and Tasmania, with Deloitte Access Economics forecasting Victoria will lead all other states in economic growth over the next five years.

Victoria also saw a 13 per cent surge in business investment during the past calendar year – outpacing growth in the rest of the country by nearly 6 per cent.

Quotes attributable to Treasurer Tim Pallas

“Today’s ABS data shows that our fiscal strategy is creating jobs and keeping unemployment low in regional Victoria, ensuring all Victorians share in the success of our state as we lead the nation in business investment.”

“We have created almost 800,000 new jobs since we came to office, and our Budget sets Victoria up for continued economic growth.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney

“Victoria’s world-class TAFE system is building a skilled workforce and helping people find in-demand jobs near where they live, right across the state.”

“This is coupled with our record $45 billion dollar investment in regional Victoria – ensuring our regions and towns are great places to live, work and visit, boosting local economies and the communities that call them home.”