OPTIMISM FOR ILLAWARRA EMPLOYMENT
PROSPECTS
Tuesday 24th November 2009
Matthew Tukaki the Regional Manager of Drake International, one of the worlds oldest and largest
employment companies will be in Wollongong this Wednesday talking with staff and meeting clients
about the employment sector in the City and the region. Reflecting on the unemployment figures for the
Illawarra at Drakes annual management conference, Mr Tukaki noted that the Illawarra had not been as
hard hit by the Global Financial Conference as was the case in the recession of 1990 – 1991.
“The unemployment rate in Wollongong, for example, is relatively stable but we need to ensure that we
look at how many of the unemployed are considered to be long term. The last time I looked at the
figures the average job seeker duration was about 25 months.” Said Tukaki
“Instead of looking at the figures and saying these are all the reasons for the problem – lets look at it and
say, well if the average is 25 months lets start up-skilling and cross skilling. We should also be looking
at the major industry movements in the area and saying, well ok – if these sectors will recover from Q1
and Q2 2010, lets make sure we have trained and skilled people who can move into new roles.” Mr
Tukaki said.
“The exciting thing about Wollongong and the Illawarra is its coastal position, proximity to Sydney and,
therefore, lets think about new industries and business that could start up – off the back of every global
financial crisis comes the rise of new industries so why can’t Wollongong and the Illawarra be involved
or lead by example?” Tukaki said.
Media enquiries:
Drake International
Matthew Tukaki
Regional Manager - Australia
Mb : 0409 707 572
mtukaki@au.drakeintl.com
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