Proportion of Unemployed People

The propotion of the population above 15 who do not have a job, but are actively looking for work. A high value indicates a higher number of individuals in the suburb who are currently unemployed and receiving government assistance for jobseekers. This may suggest a weaker job market in the area, and serves as a reflection of the demand for labour. High rates of unemployment are fine in the short term; this reflects the cyclical economic conditions which rise and fall. However, if an area has a continually high rate of unemployment over-time, then this is more concerning, as it speaks to a potentially underskilled population whose talents do not match those demanded by the region. This can lead to entrenched disadvantage.