29 March 2023

South Australia Economic StatementSouth Australia's Premier has outlined a vision for the state’s economic future that is smart, sustainable and inclusive in a new South Australian Economic Statement.

Announcing the statement at his first CEDA State of the State address, the Premier said it set a high ambition for the South Australian economy to capitalise on the global green transition, and to be a partner of choice in an insecure world.

In the wake of the AUKUS nuclear submarine announcement, the Statement outlines a vision to build the state’s talent so all South Australians can participate and enjoy a higher standard of living.

Hydrogen is rapidly emerging as a pivotal renewable energy source capable of meeting the demands of local and international energy needs.

That is why the South Australian Government will this year be introducing a Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Act to support the delivery of its Hydrogen Jobs Plan and to unlock billions of investment dollars for renewable energy projects.

The Act will seek to provide successful proponents with a clear and efficient regulatory and licencing framework and a “one window government” process, providing a competitive advantage for the state.

But it is not just Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Projects the South Australian Government intends to get moving.

That is why it will streamline the state’s planning and regulatory system by establishing the position of Coordinator-General in South Australia.

The Coordinator-General will have wide-ranging powers to plan, deliver and coordinate large-scale infrastructure projects, while ensuring their environmental impacts are properly managed.

While the measure seeks to improve coordination of approvals, the new role would not entail any change to or erosion of actual standards or requirements.

The South Australian Government will also seek to establish a new Economic Development Board.

The Board will engage widely with industry, businesses, and the community to assist the government in delivering concrete actions to deliver on the Statement, building upon the significant work already underway.