South Australia's labour market has weathered the economic storms thrown up by the global coronavirus pandemic better than other states, an independent report has found.
Roy Morgan's latest employment estimates found total unemployment and under-employment in the state had fallen from 23.9 per cent before the pandemic to 17.4 per cent in the June quarter this year.
Chief executive Michele Levine said South Australia's management of COVID-19 had been "top of the class" with fewer outbreaks than other mainland states and not one day of lockdown so far in 2021.
"The lesser reliance of South Australia on international tourism than other mainland states has also served the local economy well during a time when international borders have remained closed," she said.
Premier Steven Marshall said SA's strong performance was thanks to the collective efforts of every South Australian, working together to keep the state safe.
"There are more South Australians employed now than at any other time in our state's history but we know there's more work to be done," he said.
"That's why our state budget has a focus on creating jobs, as South Australia's strong economic rebound continues.
"Thousands of local jobs will be created over the next four years as our budget drives South Australia's ongoing economic recovery through targeted stimulus, record infrastructure investment, lower costs for businesses, and increased industry growth support."
