Dunedin job growth tracking well

Dunedin job growth tracking well against Economic Development Strategy

Dunedin (Thursday 31 January 2019) - Dunedin experienced a 2.7% increase in filled jobs over the March 2018 year with 1,646 new positions created, according to the latest report from Infometrics.

The figures show that the city is performing well against the goals of the Dunedin Economic Development Strategy, coming just shy of the 5000 jobs aimed for in the first five years of the strategy.

Chris Staynes Chair of the Dunedin Economic Development Committee says, “It’s clear that Dunedin is enjoying a sustained period of growth and with the numerous developments planned for the city in the years ahead, this shows no sign of slowing down any time soon.

“With 4,721 new jobs created since 2013, we’re well on track to achieve one of the main goals of the Dunedin Economic Strategy, 10,000 new jobs by 2023, and as the city continues to evolve and diversify I think we’ll see even more focus on high value high yield businesses.”

Job growth in the city is now accelerating at the fastest pace since 2004, led by professional services including scientific and tech services, the construction industry and education. Dunedin’s strong startup culture is also reflected in the figures, as emerging businesses expand and take on new personnel.

Mayor of Dunedin Dave Cull says the latest statistics again reaffirm that Dunedin is experiencing a strong resurgence.

“We’re seeing sustained and sustainable increases in both population and job numbers, and it is very pleasing to see a large proportion of new people coming into the city that are of a working/family age.

“This reflects increased business confidence and ongoing work by our city partners on initiatives to grow the economy and jobs, as well as Dunedin’s unrivalled lifestyle offering.

“Further exciting developments are planned over the coming years. Major projects such as the new hospital build, central city upgrade and waterfront development will present further job opportunities and help to make the city an even more attractive place to live, work, study and do business,” says Mr Cull.

Dougal McGowan Chief Executive of the Otago Chamber of Commerce was also positive about the results, he says, “It’s great to see a period of sustained job creation across a number of sectors and continued growth in our largest sectors of education, health associated industries and construction.

“This capacity growth in the construction sector also bodes well for the upcoming city developments as it builds potential internal capacity. It will also assist in the workforce development that will be essential given the size of projects coming up throughout the lower South Island.”

The buoyant job market was accompanied by an expansion of Dunedin’s economy, with a 2.6% increase in GDP for the March 2018 year and a 1.1% GDP increase per capita over the same period. This compares favourably against the average expansion of 0.2% per capita over the previous 10 years.

To see the full report, go to https://ecoprofile.infometrics.co.nz/Dunedin%2bCity/PDFProfile

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