SOUTH AUSTRALIAN INNOVATORS

The Hon. R.P. WORTLEY (15:14): Is the Minister for Small Business aware of any recent success by South Australian innovators on the world stage, and how has the government assisted in ensuring South Australia achieves this sort of recognition?

The Hon. P. HOLLOWAY (Minister for Mineral Resources Development, Minister for Urban Development and Planning, Minister for Small Business) (15:15): I thank the honourable member for his question. Port Adelaide's Todd Street Business Chambers has been recognised on the world stage, winning two award categories at the 2009 International Incubator Conference in Kansas City, Missouri. On behalf of the government, I congratulate Todd Street Business Chambers on its well deserved success.

Todd Street Business Chambers won the 2009 International Incubator of the Year award in the non-technology category, while one of the chamber's graduates, Alfresco Pergolas and Design, was awarded the 2009 Outstanding Incubator Graduate of the Year award. In the past 10 years, Todd Street Business Chambers has assisted 68 successful businesses with a combined annual revenue of more than $147 million and has created 167 new full-time jobs, making a major contribution to the economic rejuvenation of the area.

The US-based National Business Incubation Association chose Todd Street Business Chambers ahead of a number of standout entries from incubation programs around the world. This is an outstanding achievement and recognition of the contribution made by Todd Street Business Chambers to economic wealth and employment in the Port Adelaide area. A panel of more than 20 NBIA judges was impressed with the South Australian entrant's financial sustainable model of operation and the innovative programs it offered.

On behalf of the government, I also acknowledge the efforts of Lyn Hay, the General Manager of Todd Street Business Chambers' parent organisation, North West Business Development Centre, and the team in Port Adelaide. Todd Street Business Chambers assists businesses on the cusp of growth by providing flexible work space, onsite mentoring, and tailored business support. Some businesses have come to Todd Street Business Chambers as small owner operators, graduated from its three-year program, and grown into companies with a multimillion dollar turnover.

I am pleased to inform members that the Department of Trade and Economic Development has played a crucial part in the success of the Port Adelaide incubator project. The department has provided the chamber with assistance with many of the coaching and training programs offered to its businesses. Again, I congratulate Ms Hay and her team at the North West Business Development Centre and all those involved in the continuing success of the Todd Street project.