Cassy O'Connor MP | Greens Leader and Treasury spokesperson
The ABS Job figures released today reflect the pain Tasmanians are feeling as a result of the pandemic shutdown.
While the most reliable trend figures are not available, the original and seasonally adjusted figures show there are between 2,700 and 3,100 more unemployed Tasmanians in April, a 1% - 1.3% increase on March figures.
The number of underemployed persons rose by between 11,900 and 13,500.
This is gut-wrenching for thousands of Tasmanians either out of work, or working considerably less hours. For them, the future must be frightening.
The ABS data does show, however, the vast majority of Tasmanian employers are doing everything they can to hold onto their employees during this crisis.
Our thoughts are very much with Tasmanians who are suffering right now, and we hope they are soon able to fully and safely return to work.
We acknowledge the road to recovery will be long and commit to working cooperatively with government to ensure economic stimulus measures are targeted where they are most needed.