State of Markets – SA October 2012

Fast figures

• 5.2%: unemployment rate, trend (ABS)
• $20 million:  value of construction projects being fast tracked (state government)
• 1.7%: Adelaide vacancy rate (SQM Research)

Port Pirie to become resources boom ‘gateway’
Port Pirie Regional Council recently received funds to research how best to position the area as the gateway to South Australia’s mining boom, the state government has said.

“These studies will assist us to continue to work with the Member for Frome Geoff Brock and other community leaders in Port Pirie to ensure the city benefits from the growth of mining activity,” mineral resources and energy minister, Tom Koutsantonis, said.

The $200,000 grant will allow a strategic plan to examine the opportunities for South Australia’s sixth most populous city.

Studies will focus on how to create a more effective port by maximizing loading facilities, improving facilities at the airport to unlock fly-in/fly-out opportunities, expanding the natural gas pipeline and creating a mining school.

$20m of projects to be fast-tracked
More than $20 million worth of construction projects is being fast-tracked by the state government, according to recent announcements.

To support the construction industry, Premier Jay Weatherill will encourage the Economic Development Board, Urban Renewal Authority and Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure to look into their ‘shovel-ready’ projects.

“Where additional work is required for approval to be granted, we will appoint a case manager for each project to help expedite the relevant approvals,” Mr Weatherill said.

He explained that this is being done as a matter of urgency to assist a struggling industry, and “that’s why we are taking this extraordinary step.”

The move should see significant infrastructure projects pushed through the pipeline even more quickly.