Estimates Replies

Overland Train Service

In reply to the Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS (West Torrens) (27 September 2018). (Estimates Committee A)

The Hon. S.K. KNOLL (Schubert—Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Local Government, Minister for Planning): I have given careful consideration to the funding arrangement between the South Australian government and Great Southern Rail regarding the provision of the Overland services, and particularly the value of this funding in providing benefits for regional South Australia.

In challenging fiscal times, the South Australian government needs to carefully prioritise its funding to maximise benefits for all South Australians.

Unfortunately, due to the relatively low passenger levels for the service, particularly within regional South Australia, and availability of other transport options for these regional communities such as coach services, the state government has come to the difficult conclusion that an extension to the current funding agreement is unable to be justified when assessed against other funding priorities.

I will take this opportunity to commend Great Southern Rail in their provision of this service in providing connectivity opportunities for tourists and the regional community of South Australia.

In regard to contingency, it is inappropriate for me to respond to a matter for the Department of Treasury and Finance.