Torrens to Torrens Project

The Hon. J.A. DARLEY (15:06): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, representing the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Local Government, questions regarding the closure of small businesses due to the Torrens to Torrens project.

Leave granted.

The Hon. J.A. DARLEY: After eight years in business, owners Gareth and Emma Grierson announced on social media recently that Red Door Bakery and Croydon Social will be placed into the hands of liquidators due to the constant disruptions caused by the Torrens to Torrens project. This is a matter that has been widely discussed in the media. In an attempt to save their business and retain their 30 employees, the couple were forced to sell their family home. Unfortunately, their efforts could not overcome the devastating impact of three years of road works. The owners have expressed the need for the government to consider small business when capital works are undertaken. Sadly, they have seen many local businesses close due to the T to T project.

I am personally aware of other businesses that have had to close due to the disruption caused by government projects. This is in addition to the businesses that have managed to stay afloat albeit under extreme financial and emotional distress, but does not even begin to address the concerns of residents who have been affected by government projects like the Torrens to Torrens. My questions to the minister are:

1. Can the minister advise how many businesses have closed, rather than relocated, along the Torrens to Torrens project?

2. Has DPTI conducted any follow-up with these businesses that closed to find out how things could be done better and see if anything could have been done to save their livelihoods?

3. Did the Griersons request assistance from the government? If so, what was the result?

4. How many businesses have approached the government or DPTI indicating that the Torrens to Torrens project has affected their businesses?

5. What consideration has the government given to providing relief to businesses that are affected by capital works?

6. What plans does DPTI have in place now to avoid these problems in the future?

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY (Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment) (15:08): I thank the honourable member for his question. I did spend some time on a select committee with him in the previous parliament, where we looked at a number of these issues. I know that he still has a strong ongoing interest in the disruption with infrastructure and land acquisition, and properties and businesses. It will be a pleasure to take that question on notice and refer it to the Hon. Stephan Knoll, the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Local Government, and bring back a reply.