Regional jobs boost

Former Cats premiership star Cameron Mooney will appear at the Regional Living Expo this weekend.

Victoria’s south-west region is a top location for career opportunities in retail, professional and construction services, according to State Government.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional and Rural Development Peter Ryan said recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics and employment website seek.com.au showed regional employers were pursuing professionals for a variety of jobs.

“In Barwon South West, which takes in the coast from Geelong to the western border retail is showing the most substantial consistent increase with an estimated 2600 additional jobs, compared to last year.

“The next fastest growing sector is professional, scientific and technical services with 1800 extra jobs. The construction sector is not far behind, with 1,200 additional positions.”

Seek managing director Joe Powell said typically city-based professions were starting to move into the regional job market.

“People often think the only jobs in regional areas are in agriculture and public services, but our data shows professions typically associated with city life are thriving in Victoria’s regions,” Mr Powell said.

“We have also noticed a recent spike in postings for accounting, healthcare and medical services in Geelong and surrounds, with accounting jobs up 25 per cent and healthcare and medical positions up 24 per cent year on year to February 2013.”

The free Regional Victoria Living Expo is on at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from Friday 19 to Sunday 21 April.