MR PALLAS (Treasurer) — I rise to inform the house of new achievements by the Andrews Labor government in securing jobs for all Victorians. Data released last week by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) demonstrate that since the last election more than 100 000 jobs have been created in Victoria. Over 52 000 of those jobs are full-time jobs — three times as many full-time jobs in a third of the amount of time those opposite occupied the crease. Our unemployment rate is down to 6 per cent from a high of 6.9 per cent, which is resounding confirmation of the Andrews Labor government’s commitment to restoring our state’s strength and getting Victorians back to work.

Jobs growth and economic growth are booming despite being handicapped by the federal government. Victoria receives 9 per cent of federal infrastructure funding. In contrast New South Wales receives 36 per cent. Malcolm Turnbull preaches ‘continuity and change’, but they are hollow words from a hollow suit. It is a government of selfies and sophistry — Seinfeld words from a government about nothing — intent on applying the handbrake of partisan politics to an accelerating Victorian — —

The SPEAKER — Order! The Treasurer will resume his seat. The manager of opposition business on a point of order, to be heard in silence.

Mr Clark — On a point of order, Speaker, I again draw your attention to sessional order 7, which provides that ministers statements are to inform the house of new government initiatives, projects and achievements. To date I do not believe the Treasurer has even begun to do so. He is certainly now debating the issue. I ask you to bring him back to compliance with the sessional order.

The SPEAKER — Order! The Treasurer will continue making a ministers statement. The Treasurer was on track from the beginning, but I now ask him to come back.

MR PALLAS (Treasurer) — Those opposite might not like the good news that the latest ABS statistics show us, but they tell a ringing story about the revitalisation of the Victorian economy. We are first in the nation now on state final demand. We are the fastest growing economy on the eastern seaboard of this nation. We are leading the nation in business investment and consumer and household consumption. Unlike those opposite and their federal bloviating blowhards, a Labor government is once again putting Victoria back to work.

Mr Guy (Leader of the Opposition) — By leave, I do not think anyone has taken the time to thank the members for Bendigo West and Wendouree for the Easter eggs.

The SPEAKER — Order! Leave is granted. All members, including the Chair, thank the members for their Easter courtesy.