Ethan Automotive

The Hon. D.G.E. HOOD (14:52): My question is directed to the Minister for Manufacturing, Innovation and Trade, who also acts as the Minister for Automotive Transformation. Will the minister update the chamber on the progress of Ethan Automotive out in the northern suburbs? Are they scheduled to release their new vehicles on three different platforms, as I understand, in 2018? What will be the effect of employment numbers in the northern area? And any other associated issues that he may feel are relevant.

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Manufacturing and Innovation, Minister for Automotive Transformation, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation) (14:53): I thank the honourable member for his very important question. This government remains open to anyone who has a proposal that might provide economic activity, but more particularly jobs in the northern Adelaide region. A number of discussions have occurred between government and the proposal for Ethan Automotive. Those discussions continue to occur and, if there is something that is a viable business case, the government will be interested in progressing it further.