Upper Spencer Gulf and Outback Futures Program

In reply to Mr WINGARD (Mitchell) (31 July 2017). (Estimates Committee B)

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Employment, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation, Minister for Manufacturing and Innovation, Minister for Automotive Transformation, Minister for Science and Information Economy): I have been advised:

The South Australian government established a package of support to assist the Upper Spencer Gulf in addressing immediate challenges and prepare for the future. The package included:

Establishing a Steel Taskforce, to respond to the changing environment in the steel industry and the broader implications for Whyalla;

Establishing the Upper Spencer Gulf and Outback Taskforce, to recommend policy and programs for regional adjustment, which includes work on the Leigh Creek township transition, Leigh Creek mine rehabilitation, Port Augusta Power Stations rehabilitation, and support for affected workers;

Establishing an Economic Transition Forum to drive economic transformation of the region in collaboration with the commonwealth government and local governments, as well as the Regional Development Australia (RDA) network;

Appointing a Regional Coordinator for Whyalla to engage with the community, including businesses, workers and their families, local government and local associations to understand their needs and ensure that appropriate services are being delivered to the community;

Offering interest-free business loans, free financial counselling and free legal advice to Whyalla businesses affected by the Arrium operation; and

Providing career services and re-training to retrenched workers in the Upper Spencer Gulf in Alinta's business supply chain.

These initiatives supported community resilience and capability for individuals and businesses in the region. They are underpinned by partnership between state, commonwealth and local governments, community representatives and industry. As such they are not initiatives designed to directly create jobs, though jobs growth and increased economic activity can be expected as a consequence of state government-led community and economic development.