smh.com.au
Perth to gain 192,000 jobs in five years, driven by AUKUS and energy transition
A KPMG report projects 192,000 new jobs in Perth over five years due to AUKUS, critical minerals demand, and energy transition, exceeding other Australian cities' growth, while also noting a recovery but insufficient growth in housing.
- What are the key factors driving the projected job growth in Perth, and what are the immediate economic consequences?
- A KPMG report forecasts 192,000 new jobs in Perth over five years, driven by AUKUS, critical minerals, and energy transition. This 2.4% growth surpasses other Australian cities, and includes significant increases in healthcare (from 136,500 to 201,500 jobs) and mining (81,500 to 114,500 jobs) sectors between 2019 and 2024.
- How does the growth in specific sectors, such as healthcare and mining, contribute to the overall economic outlook for Perth?
- The report highlights Western Australia's economic diversification beyond mining and energy, showing strong growth across sectors. Housing development is recovering, though further increases in supply are needed. Construction is the third-fastest growing industry, suggesting improvements in the housing market.
- What are the potential long-term implications of Perth's economic growth, considering factors such as housing affordability and environmental sustainability?
- Perth's job growth reflects global trends in defense spending, resource demand, and climate action. Continued economic diversification and strong growth in construction may ease housing pressures. However, meeting housing needs will require substantial investment and policy action.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The headline and opening paragraph emphasize the positive job growth projections, setting a largely optimistic tone for the entire article. The inclusion of positive quotes from a KPMG partner further reinforces this framing. While acknowledging some challenges like housing supply, the overall emphasis is overwhelmingly positive, potentially skewing the reader's perception of the situation. The inclusion of the climate activist protest as a separate section creates a contrast and perhaps minimizes the possible conflict between economic growth and climate concerns.
Language Bias
The article uses language that leans towards optimism. Terms like "tipped", "recovery", "substantial increase", "notable increase", "looking really good", and "heading in the right direction" all convey a positive outlook. While factually accurate, the choice of words shapes the narrative towards a more favorable interpretation of the economic situation. More neutral alternatives might include: 'projected', 'improvement', 'increase', 'rise', 'positive indicators', and 'showing progress'.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on positive economic news and job growth in Perth, but omits discussion of potential negative consequences such as strain on infrastructure, increased cost of living, or environmental impacts of resource extraction. It also omits discussion of the potential downsides of the AUKUS agreement, or the potential challenges related to the energy transition. While acknowledging housing supply issues, it doesn't delve into the depth of the problem or explore diverse solutions.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a largely optimistic view of Perth's economic future, without fully exploring potential challenges or counterarguments. While mentioning the need for increased housing supply, it doesn't present a balanced view of the complex issues surrounding housing affordability and availability. The focus on job growth overshadows potential negative aspects of rapid economic expansion.
Sustainable Development Goals
The report highlights the creation of 192,000 jobs in Perth over five years, boosting employment and economic growth. This directly contributes to SDG 8 by increasing employment opportunities and fostering economic diversification beyond traditional sectors like mining and energy.