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A lack of action by the Rees Labor Government in facing the economic crisis is costing local people their jobs, Shadow Treasurer Mike Baird said today.
The jobless figures out today reveal unemployment in NSW has risen from 5.2 per cent to 5.4 per cent in January.
NSW has the second highest unemployment rate in the country, and compares with a national rate of 4.8 per cent.
An additional 38,000 Australians became unemployed in January – 10,300 of those in NSW.
“It is heartbreaking for the people of NSW that the number of people unemployed in this state is now consistently above the national figure,” Mr Baird said.
“NSW has become the state of inertia, with a Premier who believes he has no role to play in protecting jobs,” he said.
“The NSW Liberal/Nationals announced almost three weeks ago, a plan to reduce payroll tax by 15 per cent.
“This would benefit businesses which employ around 2 million people across the state.
“The measure would keep almost $1 billion in the NSW economy, the equivalent of almost 16,500 jobs.
“While we announced a positive plan, Mr Rees announced a plan for a summit to possibly come up with a plan.
“Once again, we encourage Premier Rees to adopt this policy for the sake of NSW workers.
“As every other government was introducing measures to boost the economy, the Rees Labor Government did the opposite, handing down a mini-Budget which is crippling the economy.
“Today’s unemployment figures are evidence of the damage caused by an inexperienced Premier and Treasurer who have refused to heed the warnings and proceeded with increasing taxes and cutting vital infrastructure projects.
“Mr Rees needs to act today to protect jobs in NSW, stimulate the economy and help businesses. He should start by adopting our payroll tax cut initiative,” Mr Baird said.
Media - Wendy Black 0418 532 534
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