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House of Assembly - Fifty-Second Parliament, Second Session (52-2)
2013-05-16 Daily Xml
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MANUFACTURING SECTOR

The Hon. S.W. KEY (Ashford) (15:01): Can the Minister for Manufacturing, Innovation and Trade inform the house about what the state government is doing to assist local manufacturers with entry into export markets?

The Hon. T.R. KENYON (Newland—Minister for Manufacturing, Innovation and Trade, Minister for Small Business) (15:02): I am pleased to inform the house that a leading South Australian sportswear manufacturer has received $25,000 in state government funding to help break into the lucrative North American export market. South Australian based JS Sports received the grant as part of the Gateway Business Program, which is designed to help local companies take the next step and begin exporting.

Since its inception in 1987, JS Sports has become one of Australia's leading performance sportswear manufacturers, producing gear for high-profile sports leagues such as the NBL, AFL Northern Territory and ACT/New South Wales competitions, as well a number of local Adelaide schools and sporting clubs. I believe this also includes the Burnside Rugby Union Football Club. The company is well known in the industry for its innovative, functional products and high-quality designs and continues to grow and expand into new markets.

The Hon. P.F. Conlon: I think you might have played for Burnside.

The Hon. T.R. KENYON: I may, in fact, play for the Burnside Rugby Union Football Club. The company has identified North America as the next step in their expansion plans, and this grant aims to help them get there. Performance sportswear is one of the fastest-growing clothing sectors in North America, and this is an example of the industry niches that South Australia's 'Manufacturing Works' strategy aims to encourage.

I am informed by the general manager of JS Sports that the grant will fund market research and an audit of their website and marketing materials to ensure they suit the North American market. JS Sports was successful in their bid for funding because of its innovative culture, modern processing capabilities and range of quality products. We have recognised the potential to have the company recognised internationally, and this grant in particular will help it boost its brand presence in North America.

I would like to encourage more South Australian companies wanting to tap into export markets to use the Gateway Business Program and the state government's team of TradeStart advisers. To be eligible for a grant, applicants must have been in business for at least two years and turn over more than $150,000 a year. Successful applicants may receive a grant of up to $25,000 over two years for eligible projects. Individual project caps range between $2,000 and $10,000.

Applications for the next round of funding under the program close on 15 June, so I encourage all eligible companies to submit their application. Projects eligible for funding include: researching feasible overseas markets; developing marketing material for distribution overseas; participating in international trade shows and trade missions; and adapting websites for specific international markets.

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