Australia’s most jobless state revealed

Australia’s unemployment rate has decreased over the course of the year so far, now remaining relatively steady at a low of 5.7%, but some states are faring better than others.

In some areas of the country, unemployment rates are significantly higher than the national average at up to 6.8%, according to the Department of Employment statistics. 

Also read: Australia’s top 10 unemployed suburbs

South Australia yet again takes the crown as Australia’s most unemployed state, far outweighing its neighbors with an ample 6.8% in April.

However, the figure does represent an improvement in the jobless rate 7.5% in October last year.

And the government still insists that people are looking for work and that while the state continues to face a significant employment challenge, jobs are being created.

Second on the list of jobless states is Queensland at 6.5%, having overtaken the previous runner up – Tasmania.

Also read: Australia’s best performing state revealed

Third on the list for unemployment in April is Tasmania at 6.3%, which less than a year after it held the title of Australia’s worst jobless state, is citing an improving trend.

Elsewhere, the Australian Capital Territory has the lowest unemployment rate in the country at only 4.1%.

Unemployment rate by state and territory

Source: ABS Labour Force Survey, three month average original data.