Support for Whyalla-based businesses and workers impacted by the Whyalla Steelworks challenges
The Australian and South Australian Governments have committed almost $100 million for support programs designed to help businesses and people impacted by the decline in steelmaking in Whyalla, and OneSteel Manufacturing Pty Ltd (OneSteel) being placed into administration.
OneSteel’s business activities included the Whyalla steelworks, South Australian iron ore mining assets, and related operations.
Creditors are encouraged to submit proof of debt owed to OneSteel's Administrator, KordaMentha, and register with the South Australian Government. Whyalla-based businesses may be eligible to receive an interim payment to support their continued business operations.
Eligible businesses can also apply for grant funding to help cover operational costs during this difficult period ($10,000).
Other supports available include financial advisory services and business mentoring, mental health and wellbeing support, and career counselling
More detailed information including frequently asked questions and grant applications are available on the Department of State Development website
South Australian steel industry and Whyalla Steelworks
South Australia has all the elements needed to produce green iron and green steel, including high quality magnetite ore, abundant renewable energy, a highly skilled workforce, a pit to port model for steel production and a supportive State Government.
The South Australian Government wants the Whyalla Steelworks to be the basis of a globally competitive and sustainable steel industry. This will include new technology like an electric arc furnace and direct reduction iron plant, underpinned by renewable energy and sustainable fuels.
The Whyalla Steelworks currently directly and indirectly employs over 3,000 South Australians and supports local businesses.
Steel Task Force
In 2015 the Steel Task Force was established to support Whyalla's mining, smelting, and manufacturing operations following the Steelworks entering Administration. The Steel Task Force is chaired by South Australian corporate director Bruce Carter AO and includes senior agency heads of key government departments. The Task Force is supported by expert commercial advisers.
The role of the Steel Task Force is to oversee and advise on matters to promote the retention and development of an economically and environmentally sustainable sovereign steelmaking capability into the future, based in Whyalla.
The South Australian government made a commitment to provide $50 million to support co-investment in capital infrastructure to secure the sustainable future of the Whyalla Steelworks.
The South Australian Government has also conducted a Green Steel Expression of Interest process to gauge global interest in being part of the transformation to green iron and steel in the state.
To facilitate the transformation of the Whyalla business, the Steel Task Force regularly liaises with the Commonwealth Government to discuss the best options to keep moving forward.
