South Australia has "handled the pandemic better than any other state on the employment front" according to a special analysis of Roy Morgan's latest unemployment estimates, while also noting "South Australia has had fewer days in lockdown of any state and is the only mainland state not to experience a lockdown so far during 2021."
"This independent analysis has confirmed what South Australians already knew – that our state's management of COVID-19 has been 'top of the class'," Premier Steven Marshall said.
"And that's thanks to the collective efforts of every South Australian in keeping our state safe, and our economy strong.
"We've had fewer outbreaks than other mainland states and not one day of lockdown so far this year – but we remain vigilant to ensure we maintain this enviable lifestyle, which has seen us named Australia's most liveable city, and third most liveable in the world.
"There are more South Australians employed now than at any other time in our state's history – with the latest ABS payroll jobs stats showing SA leading the nation in job creation, with the largest increase in payroll jobs since the low point of the pandemic, up 15 per cent – but we know there's more work to be done.
"That's why our State Budget has a focus on creating jobs, as South Australia's strong economic rebound continues.
"Thousands of local jobs will be created over the next four years as our 2021-22 State Budget drives South Australia's ongoing economic recovery through targeted stimulus, record infrastructure investment, lower costs for businesses and increased industry growth support.
"An enormous infrastructure pipeline – worth a record $17.9 billion over the next 4 years – is the centrepiece of SA's future jobs boom, with new and upgraded roads, rail, schools and hospitals delivering ongoing employment opportunities right across the state, including for trades.
"Roy Morgan's analysis further demonstrates that South Australia is creating jobs, building what matters and delivering better services to further secure our growing global reputation as one of the safest and most attractive places in the world to live, work and raise a family."
