What is the Priority Employment Area Initiative?

Australia recovered well from the Global Financial Crisis. However, while some areas are experiencing growth, others continue to experience labour market disadvantage.

As part of its response to the patchwork nature of the economy, the Government has extended the Priority Employment Area initiative, including Local Employment Coordinators and Jobs and Skills Expos, until 2013. Twenty priority employment areas have been identified as requiring additional assistance to help address local labour market issues. A total of $45.2 million has been allocated over two years, including a $20 million Flexible Funding Pool, to continue activities that support these vulnerable areas.

How were the Priority Employment Areas identified?

Priority employment areas were identified on the basis of around 70 indicators of labour market disadvantage. These ranged from key labour market aggregates such as the unemployment rate, to broader socio-economic indicators like educational attainment and the industry structure in each area.

To find where priority employment areas are located, please see the get to know your local employment coordinator page.