Whyalla Steelworks

The Hon. J.S. LEE (14:32): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking a question of the Minister for Industrial Relations about safety at the Whyalla Steelworks.

Leave granted.

The Hon. J.S. LEE: Following the first meeting of steelworks creditors on Monday 3 March 2025, it has been reported that KordaMentha administrator Sebastian Hams told the meeting that the lack of investment had created safety concerns at the steelworks, and I quote, 'we were starting to rely on luck for safety'. My questions to the minister are:

1. When was the last time that SafeWork SA inspectors carried out a workplace safety inspection at the Whyalla Steelworks?

2. Has the minister been briefed by SafeWork SA in relation to any health and safety breaches or issued any notices against the Whyalla Steelworks in the last two years?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector, Special Minister of State) (14:33): I thank the honourable member for her questions. SafeWork SA of course is the regulator who monitors and investigates and prosecutes breaches of work health and safety, and is very active in both education and compliance in workplaces right across South Australia. Things like the steelworks are obviously high-risk environments. I don't have information with me about when the last time any compliance checks or education sessions were conducted at that particular facility, but I certainly will take that on notice and bring back a reply for the honourable member.