TRADE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

190 Mr HAMILTON-SMITH (Waite) (30 November 2010). With reference to Budget Paper 4, volume 1, page 2.10, Program 1—

1. Why did payments to consultants blow out by $235,000 in 2009-10?

2. What supplies and services will be cut in 2010-11?

The Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS (West Torrens—Minister for Mineral Resources Development, Minister for Industry and Trade, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Correctional Services): I have been advised the following:

1. The increase in consultants during 2009-10, recognised in the Estimated Result in the 2009-10 Portfolio Statements, is due to an increase across a number of projects including Competitive Alternatives Study, Strategic Land Use Studies, Careers Promotion and Migration Review.

2. The reduction in Supplies and Services in 2010-11 relates to savings targets to be met which have been achieved through the cessation of the Careers Promotion Program and reduction in other economic research programs and associated operating costs.