Ignorance Is Bliss For The Minister For Youth Affairs

The Baillieu Government’s Minister for Youth Affairs has conceded he doesn’t know how many young Victorians are out of work.

In an extraordinary performance in parliament today, Ryan Smith had no idea what the youth unemployment rate was.

Shadow Minister for Children and Young Adults Jenny Mikakos said Ryan Smith had shown his complete disregard for his own portfolio and for the young people he represented.

“It’s just amazing the Minister for Youth Affairs doesn’t even know how many young people are without work,” Ms Mikakos said.

“If Ryan Smith doesn’t know there is a problem, how can he do anything about it?

“Ryan Smith is responsible for representing young people and making sure they receive the support they need, but it’s now clear he’s just not up to the job.

Victoria’s youth unemployment is at 21.1 per cent.

“Mr Smith’s accusations that the Opposition was too focused on statistics were astounding – what Ryan Smith needs to understand is that behind these statistics are real people who are facing a tough future,” Ms Mikakos said.

“Nothing is more important to Victorians than a job but it appears the Baillieu Government doesn’t care about creating work for young people.

“Where is Mr Baillieu’s plan to make sure young people can find a job?”