Steiermark unemployment rises 5.1 percent to 46,852

Unemployment in Styria rose by 5.1 percent in August, with 46,852 people without employment, ORF reported. The estimated unemployment rate reached 6.7 percent.

By the end of August, 39,389 people had registered as unemployed with the Styrian branch of the Public Employment Service, an increase of 2,033, or 5.4 percent, compared with the previous month. A further 7,463 people were taking part in training programmes.

Unemployment rose by 6.7 percent among women and by 4.2 percent among men. Employment subject to social insurance contributions remained largely stable at 548,000 people, a marginal decline of 0.1 percent.

Fewer vacancies

Companies in Styria have reported 10,686 immediately available vacancies to the employment service, 302 fewer than previously.

Yvonne Popper-Pieber of the Styrian employment service said stagnant employment, rising unemployment and fewer vacancies were clear indicators that the Styrian economy continued to face challenges.

AMS offices merged

On September 1, the employment service merged its offices in Gleisdorf and Weiz. A new office has opened in Weiz, led by Gabriele Maitz, who had previously served as deputy head in Gleisdorf.