At this time of the year thousands of school students across the region are finishing their final exams and preparing for their graduation ceremonies, as they get ready to move on from school life.
This is a momentous time for all of the young people who are the Graduates of 2022, and I know their teachers, families and friends are all extremely proud of them and all their efforts in reaching this landmark.
The students who are graduating this year have had a tougher academic journey than most, with two years of Covid-interrupted learning that they had to overcome to reach this stage.
No doubt some of this year’s graduates will continue their education at tertiary institutes, studying to become our future doctors, scientists, teachers, nurses, accountants, and maybe even members of parliament.
While others will be heading directly into the workforce, to take up a trade or perhaps follow a different career path, but the one thing that is sure is that they couldn’t be seeking a job at a better time.
Thanks to the efforts of the previous Coalition government our economy bounced back strongly from the pandemic and Australia’s jobless rate currently sits at 3.4% (ABS October figures) the equal lowest level in half a century.
This provides unlimited opportunities for young people entering the workforce, with many employers crying out for staff and a nationwide shortage of skilled workers creating openings in so many exciting fields.
I always enjoy going to these graduation ceremonies to see the pride on the faces of all involved – the students who have completed their long years of study; their teachers who have guided them on this journey; and their friends and family who have supported them every step of the way.Â
To all the graduates of 2022, enjoy this time, perhaps take a well-earned break, and as you contemplate the next stage of your lives, I would like to wish you all the best and every success for the future.
