South Australian Councils will have no difficulty providing a list of shovel-ready projects to fit the State Government’s new strategy to improve job and training opportunities for South Australian communities.
The State Government has announced it will partner with local government to contribute to a $15 million fund injection into local economies over the next
few months.
Projects would be funded on a 50/50 basis, with the State contribution capped at $100,000, and will be extra to existing infrastructure projects.
Local Government Association of South Australia (LGASA) CEO, Wendy Campana said the proposed Local Government Stimulus Program could help councils perform much needed community infrastructure upgrades, such as parks, playgrounds and libraries, which will support jobs and local businesses.
“The State Government’s ‘Building a Stronger South Australia’ should provide a much needed kick start to increase job creation and training opportunities.
“Under the new funding arrangements councils will be encouraged to use local contractors and local businesses, where possible.
“Similar to the economic stimulation strategy of the former Federal Government, councils will be asked to bring to the table community projects that are shovel-ready and simply waiting for funding partnerships.
“Under the State Government’s proposal, councils will be able to apply for funding, under the scheme, on a co-contribution basis, that is both councils and the State will fund the project.”
Ms Campana said the proposed Skills for Jobs in Regions, part of the overall Stronger South Australia strategy, will involve local employers, councils and regional leaders working together to create and fill job opportunities.
“The Government has placed an emphasis on areas facing the greatest employment challenges, northern, southern and western Adelaide and the Upper Spencer Gulf.
“We certainly welcome an increased attention on job creation and training in these four areas, of traditional and in many cases generational unemployment, over the next four years.”
Ms Campana said that local government would always be a willing partner in concrete and sustainable programs to decrease unemployment and increase community wellbeing. The Government and the LGASA are continuing to finalise administrative details.
