ANDREW Barr says the ACT now has the lowest unemployment rate in the country at 4.3% – down from 4.5% in February 2016.

“This is one of the strongest indications that our economy has rebounded from the impact of job cuts our city has suffered from the Federal Liberal Government,” Andrew said.

“It also demonstrates that the ACT Government’s approach to investing in our economy and committing to a pipeline of infrastructure projects has ensured that Canberra families have access to employment opportunities.

“While the Federal Liberal Government has been shedding jobs in Canberra, we have been creating jobs. This has kept our economy strong and now we have a real opportunity to grow Canberra in the future.

“This news follows on from reports earlier this week that confidence levels amongst ACT small businesses are at some of the highest levels in the country – which is leading to more investment and more jobs in this city.

“Canberrans have a lot to be excited about over the coming years. The ACT Government is beginning work on the city’s light rail network which will deliver thousands of jobs and millions of dollars of investment into our city. The commencement of international flights out of Canberra later this year will also support local businesses by linking Canberra to the lucrative South East Asian market.

“This week, I have joined many Canberra businesses in Singapore and China to promote stronger ties between our city and Asia. Local businesses will soon have the opportunity to import their goods and services directly into Singapore, which in turn will support more jobs here in Canberra.

“The biggest risk to our economy remains further cuts from the Federal Liberal Government in the upcoming Budget. Despite this, my government will be working hard to ensure Canberrans have access to jobs and our economy remains in a strong position now and into the future.”