South Australian Treasurer Stephen Mullighan has revealed plans to tackle the talent shortage in his first budget.
In addition to a broader economic recovery fund, Mullighan has committed $11.9 million in additional investment for skills and training and $6.7 million in JobTrainer initiatives.
Australian Retailers Associarion CEO Paul Zahra also welcomed the government’s commitment to impose no new taxes, or increase existing ones, to provide a boost to business confidence.
“With South Australia under new leadership, this budget sets the tone for the next four years, and with a sound balance sheet, the state is well placed to capitalise on the post-Covid recovery,” Zahra said.
“Challenges persist around labour and skills shortages, and we note the increased investment for skills, training, and JobTrainer initiatives, which we hope will alleviate some of the worker shortfalls.
“There’s still a lot of work to do to revitalise the Adelaide CBD following the pandemic, and we welcome $40 million for a major events fund and $6.2 million to re-establish Brand SA, which will drive tourism and foot traffic to support the city’s retailers.
“The ARA commends the South Australian budget and looks forward to continuing its work with the government to ensure we accelerate the state’s retail recovery.”