Foodbank SA

40 Dr McFETRIDGE (Morphett) (30 July 2015). In reference to the food hubs in Elizabeth and Port Pirie—

1. How much funding assistance was provided in 2014-15 to Foodbank SA to establish food hubs in Elizabeth and Port Pirie?

2. How many households utilise their services?

3. Is there a need for additional financial assistance given the significant levels of high unemployment in these areas?

The Hon. Z.L. BETTISON (Ramsay—Minister for Communities and Social Inclusion, Minister for Social Housing, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Youth, Minister for Volunteers): I have been advised:

1. $250,000 was provided in 2014-15 to Foodbank SA to establish and maintain Community Foodbank outlets in Bowden, Edwardstown, Elizabeth and Port Pirie

2. The Elizabeth outlet was opened to the public on 30 July 2015 and has assisted 72 clients as of 6 August 2015. The Port Pirie outlet opened in June 2014 and has assisted 1,213 clients.

3. In addition to supporting Community Foodbank outlets, the Department for Communities and Social Inclusion supports a range of programs in Elizabeth and Port Pirie to assist those in financial hardship, such as the Emergency Financial Assistance Program, Low Income Support Services and Financial Counselling Services.