FROM THE CEO
Although the story is still unfolding, it would be remiss of us not to comment on the tumultuous 24 hours of events in Whyalla. It was while visiting the Upper Spencer Gulf in the middle of last year that I was first alerted by a local small business owner about challenges in dealing with the steelworks. Basically, he refused to service them having not been paid for previous work. Further discreet enquiries suggested this was the tip of the iceberg.
Placing the steelworks under administration was a necessary step to find a way forward for the operation, its employees and the many small businesses impacted. As more details emerged and time passed without any sign of a resolution, it felt like Whyalla was enduring death by a thousand cuts and it had become clear that government intervention was essential.
The Chamber welcomes today’s announcement of a support package for local businesses who are owed significant amounts by GFG, many of whom have been forced to pay their creditors out of their own pockets. It is now imperative that the plant is restored to full working order and a sustainable ownership and operational solution is found to lock in long-term security for the people of Whyalla, and to deliver on the promise for steelmaking in Australia.
I hope the many brave, resilient people I met late last year at the Whyalla Business Awards can draw strength and optimism from this and that the package provides the assistance in a timely fashion and without administrative burden.
We have offered our services to both the government and the local Chamber to provide support in any way we can.
Beyond Whyalla, we have a fascinating SA Business Chamber – William Buck Survey of Business Expectations (December Quarter) due to drop next Tuesday. This survey had the biggest response in years. Why? Possibly because we asked your thoughts on energy sources for South Australia… Look for it next week via our website and socials.
ANDREW KAY
