HISTORIC WHYALLA SUPPORT PACKAGE

The recent support package for Whyalla announced by the Prime Minister and SA Premier has been welcomed by the Mayors of Port Pirie and Port Augusta Councils who, along with Whyalla Mayor, Phill Stone, are members of the Spencer Gulf Cities.

The future viability of the Whyalla steel works is felt strongly across the region and the impact of this package provides much needed assurance for our families, workers, contractors and businesses.

The package announced includes:
Immediate, on the ground support – $100 million

• Creditor Assistance payments ($50 million)
• Infrastructure upgrades ($32.6 million)
• Jobs Matching and Skills Hub ($6 million)

Stabilising the Steelworks – $384 million

• The State and Federal Governments are co-investing $384 million to fund the Whyalla Steelworks’ operations during administration. This funding will ensure workers and contractors will have ongoing work at the Steelworks and will continue to be paid.

Investing in the Steelworks’ future – $1.9 billion

• The State and Federal Governments will work with a new owner to invest in the upgrades and new infrastructure which will be vital to ensuring the Steelworks has a sustainable, long-term future.

This funding package hits the key areas and will work towards ensuring the Whyalla Steel Works continues to play a significant and vital role in the economic prosperity of Australia.

While efforts now begin to implement and bed this down, the social impacts will be felt across the region and it is important that we all support a smooth transition.

Chair of the Spencer Gulf Cities, Port Pirie Mayor Leon Stephens said “our Councils will offer continued support to Mayor Phil Stone, his Council, the community and both the State and Federal Governments with this unprecedented intervention. Port Pirie and Port Augusta Councils are committed to playing their part”.

Mayor Shine said “our councils are proud of our close working relationship and recognise how important it is for us to work together to support our communities and foster growth in the region”.

The 3 Mayors and their CEOs are members of the Upper Spencer Gulf Intergovernmental Group (USGIG), chaired by Minister Koutsantonis on behalf of the Premier. The primary objectives of this Group are to work collaboratively on strategic issues impacting on the region.

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Contact:

Mayor Leon Stephens Mob: 0417 080 961
Mayor Linley Shine Mob: 0419 423 777
Mayor Phil Stone Mob: 0491 276 764
Wendy Campana Mob: 0417 861 783