About the Upper Spencer Gulf Common Purpose Group

The Upper Spencer Gulf Common Purpose Group (trading as ‘Spencer Gulf Cities’) was incorporated in 1998 as a forum for the regional cities of Port Pirie, Port Augusta and Whyalla 1998 to share information, jointly implement initiatives, provide a united voice and work with Government, industry and other stakeholders in the interest of improving the long term sustainability of the region.

Our focus is to provide a strong, united voice and advocacy for the Upper Spencer Gulf; facilitate stronger collaboration and operating efficiencies across the three Councils and: support the economic transition of the Upper Spencer Gulf to cleaner, more innovative, liveable and economically diverse regional cities by:

• Realising our potential in storage-based renewable energy generation and new technology testing; value-adding and innovation in agriculture and arid-smart technologies; advanced manufacturing in minerals processing; event, cultural and marine tourism; and defence.
• Improving higher education, skills and research capabilities in our region to support these emerging sectors.
• Strategic infrastructure to improve our role as a transport intermodal hub, including expanding existing, under-utilised port facilities in Port Pirie and Whyalla and an alternative national highway crossing of the gulf at Port Augusta.
• Strengthening the role of Pt Pirie, Whyalla and Pt Augusta as regional service centres and improving community confidence and city liveability through facility upgrades; mainstreet redevelopment and activation; and improved buffer zones between heavy industry and city centres.