“Most of this fall comes on the back of another big month for people moving off a benefit and into employment.
“Around 31,240 people left a benefit last quarter for a job, the second-highest number of people finding work since records began.
“The statistics buck the seasonal trend which usually sees a rise in benefit numbers over the June quarter.
“The size of the fall over the June quarter is a significant milestone in our recovery from Covid-19.
“While we have been successful in getting those who have recently lost their jobs back into work, what is pleasing with the statistics is that nearly 10,000 people who have been receiving a benefit for over a year found work in the June quarter,” Ms Sepuloni said.
“Our recovery is creating jobs and getting New Zealanders back to work, but we are also partnering with industry to ensure businesses are getting the skills they need.
“Some of the most successful programmes include Flexi-Wage, which has seen 4782 people placed into employment since it was expanded in February, and Apprenticeship Boost, which now has supported 30,031 people into a trade.
“I've been particularly impressed by the results from the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs, with 1326 sustainable full-time jobs created across regional New Zealand.
“I encourage all businesses who are looking for workers to contact MSD,” Ms Sepuloni said.
Subsidies were available to help with the cost of training employees.”
(See also page 10)
