STATEMENTS BY SENATORS

Senator MARIELLE SMITH (South Australia) (13:44): This is a difficult time for the people of Whyalla. The announcement by the administrator of the steelworks that the efforts to restart the blast furnace over recent months were unsuccessful will impact workers, their families and the broader community. What is clear is that years of failure to invest in the steelworks mean it is now beyond repair.

Whyalla is a resilient community, but we cannot underestimate how disappointing this announcement from KordaMentha will be for many. I want to reiterate that our government stand firmly with workers in Whyalla, and we acknowledge how tirelessly they have worked throughout this challenging period. We are focused on supporting them and on ensuring that no-one is left to navigate these circumstances alone.

Staff from Minister Amanda Rishworth's department, the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, are on the ground assisting the local community. From coordinating local support to guiding workers and their families to assistance, these officials are there to help. The $10 million Whyalla blast furnace response plan will also help those affected through workforce support.

Labor is committed to a domestic steel manufacturing industry and to securing the long-term future of the Whyalla Steelworks and the local jobs and the families which rely on it. We are working hand in hand with the Malinauskas government as we do so, with two bidders currently shortlisted. This is a complex transaction, and it needs to be done right.

I know this is a disappointing time for Whyalla community, and all South Australians feel it too. We stand with Whyalla, and we are committed to the economic future of this town because it matters to all of us.