MR PALLAS (Werribee—Treasurer, Minister for Economic Development, Minister for Industrial Relations) (14:33):

This year alone the Andrews government has announced more than $1 billion in support to Victorian small- and medium-sized businesses and sole traders, including the business costs assistance program, the Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund, the business continuity support fund, the Small Business COVID Hardship Fund and of course the commercial tenancies relief fund arrangements.

When the pandemic hit we moved swiftly and we pumped billions of dollars into the Victorian economy, supporting businesses and also ensuring that workers had the support that they needed when they needed it most. Throughout the pandemic we have stood by Victorian businesses every step of the way, and in doing so we have pumped $13 billion into support for both businesses and the community in response to the global pandemic.

This government knows that exactly the best way to strengthen the economy is to beat the pandemic. I note that the Prime Minister said just recently that going hard and early is the best economic outcome, not just the best health outcome.

Now, I know that the Prime Minister recently visited the UK. What I did not realise was that he must have visited Damascus on his way back. I am pleased to report that because of this—the government’s short, sharp lockdown and our business support—businesses are now opening up and they are securing jobs for Victorians.

Since September 2020 Victoria has added more than 240 000 jobs, more than any other state, with daylight second. Our unemployment rate has fallen to 4.4 per cent, well below the national average of 4.9 per cent and the second-lowest unemployment rate in the last decade.

This pandemic has been tough on everyone, but while those opposite whine and peddle conspiracies, this government is supporting businesses and creating jobs.