Maharey welcomes job advertising figures

The Minister of Social Services and Employment, Steve Maharey has welcomed the latest job advertising figures released by ANZ.

The survey showed a 4.2 per cent rise in job advertising last month, driven largely by a sharp rebound in advertising levels in Christchurch.

Advertising levels, which are seasonally adjusted, also increased in Auckland, Waikato and Hawke's Bay and were ahead of levels a year ago in all regions.

Mr Maharey said the increase in advertising levels was another indication that the unemployment rate would remain low.

"National job ad numbers are now at a record high. This is good news for the economy, and for job seekers."

Maharey said the figures were also good news for the Government as they were trying to lift the skills of the country's workforce and to expand economic opportunity.

In the 2001 Budget, the Government provided another $56 million over four years to create an additional 17,000 industry training places, Mr Maharey said.

The budget also contained a $34.35 million regional and business development package and a $100 million capital investment fund.

But he said there was a limit to what the Government could achieve on its own.

"For best results, we need to work in partnership with a vibrant private sector."