Launch of State Election Platform
The Port Pirie Regional Council recognises the importance of ensuring that local candidates and political parties are informed about the issues that are important to the future economic, social and environmental development and management of Port Pirie as part of the lead up to the March 2022 State Election.
Through this State Election Platform, Council seeks to formally engage and advocate for ongoing government policy enhancements, targeted access to funding and the recognition of Council’s role and sphere of influence in intergovernmental discussions. It seeks to establish (and where appropriate continue) frameworks for efficient and proper intergovernmental engagement.
The Council is committed to working collaboratively with the party that wins the election and with the local elected Member of Parliament. Council will continue to act on behalf of its citizens, businesses, industry leaders and those wishing to invest and visit the city.
Mayor Stephens said:
“With a population of 17,754 and some traditional and new regional industries continuing to grow, the job opportunities are varied and immense.
While this growth is welcome, the Council is keen to play its role to support and advocate for enhanced government services and addressing the community needs that result from growth, including making sure our local unemployed are skilled up to take on local jobs.
"There are some specific challenges that Port Pirie needs help and support with, and the Council stands ready to partner with governments to tackle a range of issues”.
Port Pirie has an ongoing need to respond to lead abatement issues from a long history of Smelter operations. It is recognised that the new ownership of Nyrstar, through Trafigura in the last two years, has resulted in a more targeted progression in addressing abatement issues, albeit all parties recognise that there is further work to do.
Mayor Stephens said:
“While Council welcomes the recently announced appointment of Peter Dolan to the role of Executive Director of TLAP, there is still more to be done and we seek to have greater and more direct engagement and targeted spending in areas of need.
Port Pirie’s aspirations and growth are central to future government decision making. A State Election provides an excellent opportunity to garner support and recognition of the needs of Port Pirie and importantly its contribution to the region, the State and nationally”.
This document is informed by the work of the Council and its interactions with the community, industry and businesses and covers 9 key issues:
1. Lead Abatement
2. Water
3. Workforce
4. Housing
5. Childcare Facilities
6. Community Well Being
7. Clinical Simulation Training Laboratory
8. Hospital Upgrade
9. Roads
Each issue is outlined in the document and where available, appropriate supporting data and information is provided along with the commitment that is being sought by the Council.
Following the release of this document, the Council will be further refining the commitments included within it and will release additional supporting information and data to add weight to its claims for support, collaboration and engagement.
Council will actively engage and comment on policies and promises of independents and political parties as it takes an active role in advocating for Port Pirie.