Micro-Enterprise Development Program

262 Dr McFETRIDGE (Morphett) (27 September 2016). In reference to 2016-17 Budget Paper 5, page 20—

1. Will the Micro-Enterprise Development Program be made available to all vulnerable South Australians across South Australia, not just those who are in the Northern Metropolitan Region and if not, why not?

2. How will the Micro-Enterprise Development Program be delivered, which agency will deliver it and how many participants are expected to receive micro-credit under 2016-17 budget eligibility arrangements?

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

1. The Micro-enterprise Development Program (MEDP) trial will have a strong focus on supporting vulnerable South Australians in the northern suburbs of Adelaide. However, it will also be available to all vulnerable South Australians, subject to meeting program criteria.

2. The MEDP will be delivered by Good Shepherd Microfinance. The program is currently in the research and development phase and is expected to commence accepting participants in mid-2017.