OUTBACK COMMUNITIES AUTHORITY

The Hon. P. HOLLOWAY (14:34): My question is to the Minister for State/Local Government Relations. Will the minister inform the house how the Outback Communities Authority is improving its services to people in remote areas?

The Hon. B.V. FINNIGAN (Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for State/Local Government Relations, Minister for Gambling) (14:34): I am pleased to inform the chamber that last week (on Tuesday, as I understand it), the Outback Communities Authority relocated to a new office at 12 Tassie Street in Port Augusta. People familiar with Port Augusta will know the heritage-listed building is known locally as the PIRSA building.

The move from the authority's former Marryatt Street office means that OCA staff and board members have more office space to better accommodate customers and future business needs. The government-owned building has a more functional boardroom, which can better accommodate outback community members who wish to observe board meetings. There is also a larger reception area, where displays and information will be provided for customers. The Outback Communities Authority is sharing the building with the Department of Primary Industries and Resources SA and is just up the street from the former office. I believe contact phone numbers, email addresses and the postal address remain unchanged.

The Outback Communities Authority was established on 1 July 2010, replacing the Outback Areas Community Development Trust as the management and governance authority for the outback. I acknowledge the work of my colleague, the previous Minister for State/Local Government Relations, in establishing the authority. The OCA is responsible for, I believe, 65 per cent of our state in area, where there are more than 30 outback communities and numerous grazing and farming properties not serviced by local councils.

Outback communities can look forward to having a greater say in what happens in the outback. The government is committed to consulting with the community about what services and infrastructure will deliver the greatest benefits to outback residents. The Outback Communities Authority further empowers communities to initiate and drive proposals to seek improved services.