The Palaszczuk Labor Government’s failure to release an economic plan for Queensland continues to cost jobs at a staggering rate, with new figures revealing the full extent of the unemployment pain on the Gold Coast.

Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics released today showed the Gold Coast experienced the most job losses in Queensland over the past year.

17,200 jobs disappeared on the Gold Coast in 12 months, while 2500 went last month.

The unemployment rate rose 0.6% to 6.1% while the youth unemployment rate is 13.6%.

LNP Deputy Leader and Shadow Treasurer Tim Mander said these dire unemployment numbers are the result of Annastacia Palaszczuk’s weak leadership.

“Before Coronavirus Queensland had the highest unemployment in the nation and nothing has changed,” Mr Mander said.

“For Labor to cancel a State Budget in an election year and in the middle of a recession is economically reckless and the Gold Coast is paying a hefty price.

“Annastacia Palaszczuk was the last Premier to announce an economic stimulus package but was the first and only Premier to cancel her budget.

“Only the LNP has a plan to stimulate the economy, create a decade of secure jobs and drag Queensland out of this recession.

“We will start work on the drought busting New Bradfield Scheme a major new economic driver for Queensland, invest in new infrastructure to create more jobs and stimulate the economy and we will guarantee no new taxes.

“A Deb Frecklington LNP will establish an Economic Recovery Agency, which will be headed by the new Coordinator-General, to kickstart major stimulus projects like the congestion-busting second M1 to create jobs.

“Our plan for a stronger economy and secure jobs is based on the four foundations; investing for growth, unleashing Queensland industry, super-charging the regions and securing our children’s future.

“Only one party can provide the economic leadership that Queensland needs and that’s the LNP.”