Spencer Gulf

In reply to the Hon. J.A. DARLEY (18 November 2015).

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Employment, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation, Minister for Manufacturing and Innovation, Minister for Automotive Transformation, Minister for Science and Information Economy): I have been advised:

The South Australian government has announced funding to support individuals, businesses and communities in the Upper Spencer Gulf and outback regions as follows:

$7 million has been committed as an economic assistance package for the Upper Spencer Gulf and outback region. This includes $5 million which has been made available through the current round of the Regional Development Fund to specifically support projects which will create jobs and drive economic growth in the region, and $2 million for small business grants.

$1 million has been committed for job creation and support. This includes $258,000 for regional job creation grants in Port Augusta, $258,000 for regional job creation grants in Whyalla, $258,000 to support the ongoing viability of Leigh Creek and $225,000 to support Upper Spencer Gulf and outback supply chain workers.

$240,000 has been provided, through the Department of State Development, to Regional Development Australia Far North to help deliver career and job services in the region specifically for Alinta Energy workers.

Dr Lomax-Smith is on a term contract, appointed on a part time basis equating to 27 hours per week. The maximum payment to be made to Dr Lomax-Smith for the term of the contract, until 30 June 2016, is $69,715.80, plus compulsory superannuation.

Dr Lomax-Smith is located in the Department of State Development and is supported by a staff member provided by the Department of State Development. Costs for Dr Lomax-Smith and the support officer are expected to total $164,340 in 2015-16.

Dr Lomax-Smith is well qualified to oversee the Request For Information process due to her local knowledge and existing relationships with businesses and stakeholders in the region from her time as a minister of education and tourism. Together with her previous experience in Local Government these have been extremely useful throughout the request for information process.