Spencer Gulf in box seat for mine-led growth
News Release |
Hon Tom KoutsantonisMinister for Manufacturing, Innovation and Trade |
Thursday, 15 December 2011
Minister for Mineral Resources and Energy Tom Koutsantonis said today Spencer Gulf communities are in the box seat to capitalise on the more than 30 mineral projects in development in South Australia.
Speaking at the fifth annual Mining South Australian conference in Whyalla, Mr Koutsantonis says spending on exploration and project development is now beginning to translate into mines.
“This will drive demand for capacity in towns from bakers, teachers, truck drivers and mechanics through to renewable energy initiatives to support developments,” he told the conference.
“Towns along the Upper Spencer Gulf are increasingly viewed as a strategic location for workers, support businesses, the manufacturing sector and as an export gateway through its ports, road and rail.”
Mr Koutsantonis also used today’s conference to unveil the Resources and Energy Sector Infrastructure Demand Study 2011.
Commissioned by Resources and Energy Sector Infrastructure Council (RESIC) and prepared by Parsons Brinckerhoff, the study identifies 42 projects with an estimated capital value of about $59 billion, excluding main 'trunk' infrastructure.
“The study found the 24 projects with the best likelihood of reaching commercialisation by 2021 carry a capital value of $39 billion,” Mr Koutsantonis says.
“The study also highlights that South Australia will need to overcome some unique infrastructure challenges.”
To help address some of those unique challenges, RESIC has developed an online 'Infrastructure Channel' to provide a one-stop-shop for information on current infrastructure resources.
“The channel provides a ‘stock-take’ of South Australia’s current infrastructure including road, rail, ports, air, energy, gas and water,” Mr Koutsantonis says.
“I’m confident sharing pre-competitive information through the online Channel will accelerate the development of capital projects by fostering new relationships within the market place.”
The Information Channel can be accessed through software tools on SARIG - the South Australian Resources Information Geoserver.
- Page URL: http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/minerals/press_and_events/news_releases/spencer_gulf_in_box_seat_for_mine-led_growth
- Page Last Modified: February 3, 2012