Seafood to make a splash in China

South Australia’s Southern Rock Lobster is set to re-enter the Chinese market after trade restrictions were lifted recently. The Chinese seafood market, valued at over US$20 billion annually, was a key export destination for South Australia, with exports peaking at $73 million in 2020. The South Australian Government initiated the Seafood Export Growth Program in June 2024 to facilitate this re-entry, including support for exporters at the China International Import Exhibition in November 2024. In February, a group of seafood importers from China, Hong Kong, and Singapore will visit South Australia to meet exporters and learn about the state's premium seafood. The Southern Rock Lobster fishery remains the state's most valuable, with exports valued at $40 million in the year to October 2024.

https://export.sa.gov.au/articles/seafood-to-make-a-splash-in-china

20-01-25

Feedback sought on SA gas-fired power station closure

The Net Zero Economy Authority has begun a consultation regarding the closure of the Torrens Island Power Station in June 2026. This assessment aims to evaluate the potential impact on workers and businesses, and to explore support and employment opportunities through the Energy Industry Jobs Plan. CEO David Shankey emphasized that the plan is designed to help workers transition after the closure by connecting them with new job opportunities. A public consultation process, along with direct engagement with key stakeholders, will take place to gather input from those affected.

https://www.energymagazine.com.au/feedback-sought-on-sa-gas-fired-power-station-closure/

SA Green Hydrogen project to proceed

Sparc Technologies, Fortescue, and the University of Adelaide are advancing to stage two of a project to produce hydrogen from water without electrolysers. This phase will involve constructing a pilot plant for testing a novel photocatalytic water splitting (PWS) technology that uses sunlight and a photocatalyst to generate green hydrogen. The pilot plant aims to be a leading facility for R&D and commercialization of PWS, with construction expected to start in early 2025.

https://www.energymagazine.com.au/sa-green-hydrogen-project-to-proceed/

15-01-25

South Coast Trade Mission highlights regional NSW on a global stage

The Regional Economic Development Team of NSW Government hosted international delegates from 13 countries on the South Coast of New South Wales. Representatives from Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom embarked on a three-day journey to discover the region's emerging industries, which offer opportunities for investment, trade, and industry development. Starting in Sydney, the itinerary took delegates to Nowra, Huskisson, Batemans Bay, Moruya, Broulee, Bega, Merimbula, and Eden. Along the way, they engaged with local industry leaders, including the Alkath Group, Bega Cheese, Broulee Brewery, Australia’s Oyster Coast, and Sea Urchin Harvest.

https://www.investregional.nsw.gov.au/news/south-coast-trade-mission-highlights-regional-nsw-global-stage 

Singapore visit to unlock property investment in SA

A business mission to Singapore aims to promote South Australia's development projects and attract investment as part of the Housing Roadmap. Bruce Djite, Executive Director of the Property Council, emphasized the importance of attracting capital for the state's growth. The focus will be on a significant pipeline of projects under the $2 billion Housing Roadmap, which has garnered global interest, particularly from Singaporean investors. The mission will also involve meetings with leaders in green energy, hydrogen, wine, and seafood industries, as well as senior Singapore Government ministers. South Australia currently exports $2.7 million in seafood to Singapore and $13.3 million to the broader region annually.

https://invest.sa.gov.au/articles/singapore-mission-to-unlock-property-investment

AEDA launches its first Strategic Plan to Increase Economic Impact Across the City

The Adelaide Economic Development Agency (AEDA) has launched its first strategic plan for 2024/25 - 2028/29, focusing on boosting economic activity in Adelaide. The plan emphasizes marketing the city for investment attraction, funding events, enhancing education and collaboration, and developing Rundle Mall as a premier retail destination.

https://www.aedasa.com.au/blog/aeda-launches-its-first-stategic-plan-to-increase-economic-impact-across-the-city/

16-12-2024

Thai foreign minister visiting South Australia

Bilateral cooperation between Thailand and Australia was emphasized during Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa's visit to Adelaide, focusing on agricultural technology, alternative energy, and education. He met with Australian officials, highlighting Thailand's goals in food, energy, and human security. South Australia's expertise in sustainable agriculture and renewable energy, particularly hydrogen, was noted, with proposals for joint development. Thailand's healthcare initiatives and educational collaborations with Australian universities were discussed. The minister also visited Adelaide University's Waite Campus for research in smart agriculture. Australia and Thailand maintain a strategic partnership, with significant trade relations.

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2918030/thai-foreign-minister-visiting-south-australia

South Australia’s record exports to China fuel global growth

South Australia’s exports to China have reached a record $4.43 billion, a 45% increase in the past year, with overall exports surpassing $17 billion. Key contributors include wine, which surged to $550 million after tariff lifts, copper at $985 million, and barley at $556.8 million. Exports to the US grew by 30% to $2.08 billion, driven by a 351.9% increase in beef exports. India, the third-largest trading partner, saw a 4% rise to $1.11 billion, with discussions on expanding trade in various sectors. Minister Joe Szakacs emphasized the importance of these achievements for job creation and economic resilience. The government is actively fostering global trade connections, supporting local businesses in accessing international markets. South Australia’s diverse export portfolio, particularly in wine, copper, barley, and beef, showcases its economic strength and adaptability in a competitive global landscape. The focus on trade connections and new markets will be crucial for sustained growth.

https://www.theindiansun.com.au/2024/12/09/south-australias-record-exports-to-china-fuel-global-growth/

9-12-2024

 South Australia is showcasing its wine regions to a delegation of Chinese wine buyers as part of a $1.8 million support program.

 This is one of the first visits since the COVID-19 pandemic and the removal of wine tariffs by China in March 2024. Since then, South Australian wine exports to China have surged by 17,388% to $479.8 million. The buyers, accompanied by Senior Wine Export Adviser Ms. Emily Xu, will meet winemakers from McLaren Vale, Barossa Valley, and Clare, tasting wines from 70 producers across eight regions.

https://export.sa.gov.au/articles/chinese-wine-buyers-visit-south-australia-s-wine-regions

02/12/2024

US defence aerospace company sets up in South Australia

US Defence and aerospace giant, SNC, has opened its Australian headquarters in South Australia after repeated engagement with the South Australian Government over more than a year.The newly established Australian subsidiary of a major US defense company, SNC AUS, has become part of the over 160 organizations based at Lot Fourteen.In 2023, the South Australian Government’s US trade office began collaborating with SNC, a company with around 4,000 employees worldwide, to explore opportunities for driving economic growth and contributing to the AUKUS agreement.

https://www.manmonthly.com.au/us-defence-aerospace-company-sets-up-in-south-australia/

02/12/2024

Federal Parliament enacts world's first social media ban for children under 16.

Both houses of Federal Parliament have approved legislation to protect Australian children from social media, establishing a minimum age of 16. The bill, based on a framework by former Chief Justice Robert French at the request of South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas, aims to address concerns about the negative impacts of unregulated social media on children's mental health. The law places responsibility on social media platforms to prevent under 16s from having accounts, with penalties of up to $49.5 million for breaches. Young Australians will still have access to messaging, online gaming, and health and education services. Last month, the State Government co-hosted a Social Media Summit with the NSW Government.

https://www.premier.sa.gov.au/media-releases/news-items/federal-parliament-passes-social-media-ban-for-children-under-16

25/112024

Record-breaking resource royalties for SA

Surging mineral prices in South Australia have delivered record royalty receipts of $422.5 million for 2023/24, up 11% from the previous year. The growth was driven by strong demand for copper, gold, and uranium, which are essential for renewable energy and decarbonization. Copper, in particular, represents a significant opportunity for the state, which holds 69% of Australia's copper resources. Resources accounted for 39% of South Australia's $17.6 billion goods exports.

https://www.energymining.sa.gov.au/home/news/latest/sas-resource-royalties-race-past-record

02/12/2024

South Australian distilleries spirited away to Singapore

South Australia's distillers are showcasing their spirits in Singapore, supported by a $50,000 grant from the government. Six distillers, including Applewood and Flinders Gin, aim to establish an export presence in Southeast Asia through business meetings and tasting events. Mr. George Georgiadis, President of Distillers SA, noted that over 25% of members want to expand into new markets by 2024-25. Singapore, a major spirits importer, presents growth opportunities for South Australian craft spirits, which could increase local jobs significantly by 2031. For more information on support in overseas markets, visit www.export.sa.gov.au/global-offices.

https://export.sa.gov.au/articles/south-australian-distilleries-spirited-away-to-singapore

MoU with Hyundai E&C to create opportunities for renewables, energy and infrastructure

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between the South Australian Government and Hyundai Engineering and Construction (Hyundai E&C) to foster collaboration in renewables, hydrogen, housing, and infrastructure. Hyundai E&C, a leading global construction firm with $35 billion in annual revenue, aims to assist South Australia in its Housing Roadmap and future investment projects. The MoU supports South Australia's goal of achieving 100% net renewables by 2027 and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030. Hyundai E&C will engage with South Australian agencies to explore infrastructure projects, leveraging its expertise in various sectors.

https://invest.sa.gov.au/articles/mou-with-hyundai-e-c-to-create-opportunities-for-renewables-energy-and-infrastructure

20 October, 2024

Connecting jobseekers with South Australia’s fastest growing industries

The Malinauskas Labor Government has released its Jobs and Skills Outlook 2024, highlighting industries with high current and future demand for skilled workers. South Australia requires about 146,000 qualifications over the next five years, with over half achievable through vocational education and training (VET). Key sectors forecast to experience high growth include health and care, construction, defence, and manufacturing. The State Government is investing significantly in these high-demand areas to support local jobseekers.

https://www.premier.sa.gov.au/media-releases/news-items/connecting-jobseekers-with-south-australias-fastest-growing-industries

29 Sept -2024

Latest survey results from the Property Council of Australia and Procore show South Australia’s confidence rate rose by 11 points to 132 in the September quarter, surpassing the national average of 108. This positions South Australia above Western Australia and 45% higher than Victoria, which ranked lowest.The survey reflects industry views on state government performance, with the SA  Government recognized as the best performing nationally, thanks to the 74 initiatives in the Housing Roadmap addressing the housing crisis. In the first three months post-Roadmap, the government implemented several initiatives, including a new infrastructure scheme and a builders panel for small projects.South Australians also have the highest expectations for economic growth, ranking first in categories like forward work schedule expectations and debt finance availability. The Business Council of Australia labeled South Australia the best place to do business, further supported by top rankings in the Housing Industry Association's Housing Scorecard and CommSec’s State of the States report for construction work and dwelling starts.

https://www.premier.sa.gov.au/media-releases/news-items/south-australias-property-sector-confidence-ranked-highest-in-the-nation

CEFC invests $70m to help electrify and decarbonise maritime ports

Australia's domestic maritime sector emitted about two million tonnes of greenhouse gases in 2021-22.The Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) has announced a $70 million investment to decarbonise maritime ports in South Australia, focusing on electrifying vehicles and equipment at Flinders Port Holdings (FPH). This marks CEFC's first direct financing in the Australian maritime sector and aims to reduce emissions from shipping, which contributes significantly to global CO2 emissions. The investment will fund projects like hybrid straddle carriers and an electric Automated Rubber Tyre Gantry at the Flinders Adelaide Container Terminal, along with initiatives to replace internal combustion engines with electric alternatives and install solar PV systems. FPH aims for net-zero emissions by 2040 for Scope 1 and 2, and by 2050 for Scope 3 emissions, striving to lead in sustainable port operations.

https://reneweconomy.com.au/cefc-invests-70m-to-help-electrify-and-decarbonise-maritime-ports/

SA beef export to the US at all time high

South Australian beef exports to the US surged by over 285% in the year ending July 2024, reaching $195.7 million compared to $50.8 million the previous year. This growth outpaced other Australian states: NSW (103.5%), WA (64.9%), VIC (73.6%), and QLD (51.4%). Thomas Foods International, a key player in this market, operates a state-of-the-art processing facility in Murray Bridge and has established TFI USA to supply high-quality chilled grass-fed beef. Managing Director Darren Thomas emphasized the USA as a critical market and highlighted their seamless supply chain to meet demand. Minister for Trade and Investment Joe Szakacs noted the beef industry's vital role in South Australia's economic growth and pledged support for expanding market access.

https://sabusinesschamber.com.au/news/sa-beef-export-to-the-us-at-all-time-high

New investment program targets international high-growth companies to set up shop in SA

A new $1 million annual Investment Accelerator Program has been launched in South Australia to attract innovative, high-growth interstate and international companies, aiming to create local jobs in key sectors. The program offers up to $100,000 to help businesses establish a presence in the state, focusing on sectors such as health, critical technologies, defence, energy, mining, agribusiness, and creative industries.Invest SA will target companies without a physical presence in South Australia that have been generating revenue for at least 12 months. Funding can be used for office space and services like accounting and marketing. Announced in the 2024-25 State Budget, the program supports Invest SA's efforts, which have already attracted over $2 billion in investment in its first two years.

https://www.premier.sa.gov.au/media-releases/news-items/new-investment-program-targets-international-high-growth-companies-to-set-up-shop-in-sa

8 Sept 2024

South Australia is increasing its presence across the Americas.

South Australia is expanding its presence in the Americas by appointing a new Business Development Manager in San Francisco on the west coast. This move aims to assist companies in expanding into the state’s second largest export market, valued at $2.12 billion. Mr. Ryan Lipkin has been appointed as the Business Development Manager and will join South Australia’s team of trade and investment specialists already located in New York, Houston, and Washington DC.

https://statedevelopment.sa.gov.au/news/south-australia-grows-its-presence-across-the-americas

03/09/2024

SA wine flows for China wine masterclass

South Australian wine was featured at the South Australian Regional Heroes – Diverse and Distinct Wine Masterclass in Shanghai last week, as part of Wine Australia’s China Roadshow. The roadshow includes nearly 30 wine producers showcasing South Australian wines over a two-week period, offering South Australian wine exporters access to key trade opportunities and the chance to become familiar with the current state of the market. The roadshow visits four tier-one cities – Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Chongqing.

27/08/2024

New round of vine resting trial begins

The new vineyard resting trial offers red wine grape growers the potential to save up to $2,000 per hectare in input, water, and management costs. This opportunity comes at a crucial time for the state’s wine industry, which is facing an oversupply of red wine grapes due to challenging market conditions and changing global preferences.

https://www.premier.sa.gov.au/media-releases/news-items/new-round-of-vine-resting-trial-begins

23/08/2024

$1.5 million funding boost for South Australia's community centres

The State Government is enhancing support for community centers in South Australia by launching a $1.5 million grants program. The goal is to promote community involvement and address social isolation. This funding, introduced by Minister for Human Services Nat Cook, acknowledges the valuable role of community centers in organizing programs and activities that contribute to the resilience of local communities.

https://www.premier.sa.gov.au/media-releases/news-items/$1.5-million-funding-boost-for-south-australias-community-centres

SA's exports to China hit record high

South Australia's exports have increased to $17.56 billion, with exports to China reaching a record high of $4.23 billion, marking a 54.7% increase from the previous year. The state's food, wine, and agribusiness exports experienced a significant growth of 175.4%, with exports to China valued at $1.88 billion, representing 44.5% of all exports to China. Additionally, the total barley exports from South Australia grew by 6.6% to $802 million, with 78% of the state's barley being exported to China.

https://statedevelopment.sa.gov.au/news/sas-exports-to-china-hit-record-high

Regional Migration Settings discussion paper will be presented to regional business owners.

The Australian Government's Migration Strategy has introduced a new vision for Australia's migration system. This strategy includes a policy roadmap with 8 key actions, as well as over 25 new policy commitments and areas for future reform. As part of the Migration Strategy, the Department of Home Affairs is dedicated to evaluating regional migration settings and the Working Holiday Maker program to ensure that migration supports development objectives in regional Australia and does not contribute to the exploitation of migrant workers.

https://sabusinesschamber.com.au/news/regional-migration-settings-discussion-paper-to-be-presented-to-regional-business-owners

.$1.5 million funding boost for South Australia's community centres

The new funding, initiated by Minister for Human Services Nat Cook, acknowledges the important work of community centers in organizing programs and activities that help strengthen local communities. One-off grants will be available to support community centers that are not already funded through the existing Community and Neighborhood Development Program run by the Department of Human Services (DHS). Eligible centers can apply for grants of up to $30,000 each in the Grants SA 2024-25 Community Centers Round, which is now open for applications.

https://www.premier.sa.gov.au/media-releases/news-items/$1.5-million-funding-boost-for-south-australias-community-centres

South Australia is preparing for an aging population in the future.

South Australia's planning system has once again been recognized as the top-performing system in the nation. It has been ranked number one in the Retirement Living Council's national planning report card, excelling across four key pillars: legislative framework, efficiency, clarity, and progressive planning.

https://www.premier.sa.gov

29/07/2024

.Contested wind project in South Australia wins federal nod as state heads towards 100 pct net renewables

The Palmer wind project in South Australia has finally received federal environmental approval after more than 10 years since it was first proposed. Initially planned as a 114-turbine facility in 2013, the 288 megawatt (MA) project was later reduced to 103 turbines due to opposition from local landowners, including then AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan and his associate Stirling McGregor, who was particularly adamant about rejecting the proposal despite not residing in the area.

https://reneweconomy.com.au/contested-wind-project-in-south-australia-wins-federal-nod-as-state-heads-towards-100-pct-net-renewables/

8.Solar thermal powered green methanol plant wins planning consent in Port Augusta

Plans have been approved to develop a solar thermal powered methanol production facility in Port Augusta, South Australia. Vast Renewables, an Australian concentrated solar thermal energy specialist, has received planning consent for Solar Methanol 1 (SM1). The plant is expected to produce up to 7,500 tonnes a year of green methanol for shipping and aviation.

https://reneweconomy.com.au/solar-thermal-powered-green-methanol-plant-wins-planning-consent-in-port-augusta/

22/07/2024

.South Australia locks in federal funds to become first grid in world to reach 100 per cent net wind and solar

South Australia has received federal funding to become the first non-hydro grid in the world to achieve 100% net renewables. The funding deal, known as a Renewable Energy Transformation Agreement, involves the federal government underwriting a minimum of one gigawatt of new wind and solar generation capacity, along with an additional 400 MW (1,600 MWh) of storage. This initiative aims to ensure that South Australia reaches its target of 100% net renewables by 2027.

https://reneweconomy.com.au/south-australia-locks-in-federal-funds-to-become-first-grid-in-world-to-reach-100-per-cent-net-wind-and-solar/#google_vignette\

Jacob’s Creek and Barossa enter a new era as leaders in the wine industry merge.

Jacob’s Creek, Orlando Wines, and St Hugo, all prominent Barossa Valley wine brands, have been acquired through a merger between two major wine companies. Accolade, one of Australia’s largest wine businesses, will merge with Pernod Ricard’s Australian, New Zealand, and Spanish wine businesses in a deal that will bring these South Australian brands under one umbrella. The merger was announced this week by Australian Wine Holdco Limited (AWL), a consortium of investors that recently took full ownership of Accolade.

https://sabusinesschamber.com.au/news/new-era-for-jacobs-creek-and-barossa-as-wine-industry-leaders-merge

 .South Australia tops post-tariff wine exports to China

In May, Australian wine exporters shipped almost 10 million liters of bottled wine to China, with South Australian wine businesses leading the surge after the tariffs were dropped earlier this year. Federal agriculture minister Murray Watt stated that the total value of bottled wine sent to China in May was $142.2 million, marking the fourth highest monthly export figure since the peak of trade in 2019.

https://sabusinesschamber.com.au/news/south-australia-tops-post-tariff-wine-exports-to-china

SA's unemployment rate below national average

 South Australia's unemployment rate has once again fallen below the national average. According to the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) labour force figures for June 2024, the unemployment rate in South Australia is now at 3.9 per cent, which is lower than the national rate of 4.1 per cent. Additionally, South Australia's unemployment rate is on par with New South Wales and Queensland, and lower than that of Victoria and the Northern Territory.

https://www.premier.sa.gov.au/media-releases/news-items/sas-unemployment-rate-below-national-average

16/07/2024

South Australian copper mine Hillside gets a boost

 In a deal worth about $393 million, MACH will purchase all of the remaining shares in Rex. The Rex board unanimously supports the transaction. "The deal offers a guaranteed value and a substantial premium, with a 98% increase compared to Rex's 90-day VWAP (volume-weighted average price), and provides an opportunity for Rex shareholders to cash in at a 10-year high in share price," said Rex CEO Richard Laufmann.

https://www.australianmining.com.au/copper-gets-a-boost-at-hillside/

16/07/24

The South Australian government backs up its green iron credentials at the global level

Representatives from major global companies in industries such as mining, steel, and energy are converging on Adelaide for a significant forum focused on investing in South Australia's green iron and steel future. The South Australian government has presented a strategy to position the state as a leader in the global decarbonization of iron and steel, unveiling the Green Iron and Steel Strategy today.

https://www.energymining.sa.gov.au/home/news/latest/south-australia-backs-in-its-green-iron-credentials-on-the-world-stage

24/06/2024 

New developments at Lot Fourteen by Bombardier

Canadian aircraft manufacturer Bombardier has recently established itself in South Australia, setting up its new office at Lot Fourteen. The Adelaide-based office will focus on Bombardier Defense services, in line with the expanding defense sector in South Australia. Additionally, from 2026, Lot Fourteen will house the new Australian Defence Technologies Academy, with a $60 million investment from the Federal and State Governments.

https://www.aedasa.com.au/blog/new-beginnings-at-lot-fourteen/

18/06/2024

Adelaide's flourishing Entrepreneurial ecosystem supports innovation and business growth

The entrepreneurial ecosystem in Adelaide is thriving, with Adelaide start-ups increasing in value by 19% since 2023, reaching $1.9 billion, according to Start-up Genome's 2024 Global Start-up Ecosystem Report. With several international ventures now based in the city, Adelaide is quickly becoming an attractive and competitive location for start-ups and scaleups. Its innovative spirit and abundant opportunities are enabling businesses to flourish locally and expand into global markets.

https://www.aedasa.com.au/blog/adelaides-blooming-entrepreneurial-ecosystem-helping-innovators-and-businesses-thrive/