The Liberal Government is failing job seekers and the business sector by not acting to create stronger pathways from school and training to employment.
Ms White said the Liberals have failed to address barriers for Tasmanians into work, including overseeing the deterioration of TAFE.
“We have a maddening situation where job seekers are hungry for training and work, but employers can’t find the skilled workers they need to grow their businesses.
“The Liberals are failing to invest in TAFE, and failing to work with industry to develop pathways to work.
“Successful local businesses like Glasgow Engineering in Launceston are calling out for skilled, job-ready workers, and they’re not the only ones having a hard time finding any.
“Only Labor has a plan to rebuild TAFE and implement a Free TAFE Policy that will provide students with the qualifications they need to find jobs in our fastest growing industries.”
Ms White said the skills crisis in engineering, health, trades, technicians and construction is hurting the Tasmanian economy.
“Young Tasmanians are finishing school without a pathway to secure, well-paid jobs.
“Nearly 1200 fewer Tasmanians are engaged in apprenticeships or traineeships than when the Liberals took office. That’s reflected in our worrying employment figures.
“Despite favourable economic conditions, Tasmania’s jobless rate remains one of the worst in the country.
