Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations figures show the unemployment rate jumped to 3.3per cent in the December quarter last year, with 656 people looking for work, compared with 2.7per cent a year earlier.

Figures spiked in six months, from 2.5per cent in June last year, to 3per cent in September and then to 3.3per cent at the end of the year.

Employment services organisation Youth Projects, which helps jobseekers with training and employment, extended its services to Sunbury last week, adding staff to the Youth Centre office in the hope of lowering the unemployment rate.

As the unemployment statistics have risen, so too have the number jobseekers registered with Youth Projects.

Chairwoman Melanie Raymond said the job market in Sunbury was problematic due to a combination of factors.

"The poor public transport system and the lack of local jobs make it that much harder. People often need a licence and a car, or the skills required [to fill the job] aren't present locally.

"It's very important to match the employers' requirements with local jobseekers.

"I'm concerned the missing pieces of the jigsaw make it harder ... local job creation must happen to improve the

situation. With the right support in place, there is every reason to believe the figures can improve."

Ms Raymond said moving towards education and training to develop jobseekers' skills was the focus of the employment system at the moment.

"We see it as our role to help people through the maze of courses and training. There are valuable skills-based courses that will provide immediate benefits.

"We've opened the office in Sunbury to make sure there's really good advice and tailored support for Sunbury jobseekers.

"They have suffered a lack of service and support and we see that changing and will increase the services."

Youth Projects staff are also looking to work with employers to teach them about the strengths of jobseekers.

"It's not right to assume local candidates don't have what they need.

"I encourage employers to make contact with agencies because we can find them the right candidate for the job."

Youth Projects employment advisers are in Sunbury every Thursday from 9am-5pm. There are plans to extend operating hours.

Details: 93049100.