Legislative Council: Thursday, November 13, 2008

Contents

MITSUBISHI MOTORS

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY (Leader of the Opposition) (14:43): I have a supplementary question. Are the subsequent rounds to be $5 million for each round?

The Hon. P. HOLLOWAY (Minister for Mineral Resources Development, Minister for Urban Development and Planning, Minister for Small Business) (14:43): What I announced was more than $1 million in grants in this round. As I indicated in my answer to the question, of the $80 million provided by the state and federal governments in the overall package of assistance, $5 million is for Small Business Development Grant programs. Obviously, there will be more money available, which is why, at the conclusion of my answer, I invited applicants to apply for these merit-based grants so that we can ensure that that money is all expended.

Of course, the majority of the $80 million is for other forms of assistance, such as workers' training packages, etc., which are administered through other departments. My involvement as the Minister for Small Business just relates to this particular component of it. Although it is a small part of the overall package, it is, nonetheless, an important package. If just a little over $1 million can assist in leading to 39 extra jobs, it will be money very well spent.