The South Australian Housing Authority has launched tenders for constructing 103 homes with the projects to be used by local businesses, manufacturers and workers.
According to the Authority, the Government has introduced a mandate that South-Australian manufactured products must be used in the public housing construction and maintenance programs, wherever available.
“The Government will require core products used in construction to be manufactured here in SA,” the Authority said, “including bricks, timber frames, concrete, reinforcing steel, steel frames, windows, security doors and steel for roofing, fencing and rainwater tanks.”
“The mandate also requires South Australian workers to account for a minimum of 90 per cent of labour hours, with 20 per cent of those being apprentices, trainees, Aboriginal workers or the long-term unemployed,” it said.
Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Stephen Mullighan said the new mandate would serve to boost the State’s economy.
“We’re changing these rules because buying local products means supporting South Australian businesses and local jobs,” Stephen Mullighan said.
“If we can change the buying habits of Government Departments away from the interstate and overseas suppliers to local South Australian businesses, it’s a huge boost to the local economy,” he said.
The Minister for small and family businesses Andrea Michaels supported the move saying the new policy would help give local manufacturers and businesses a competitive edge.
“Many local residents in Broadview will be happy to hear this parcel of land is going to be developed, and it is exciting that the homes will be constructed with as many South Australian products as possible,” Ms Michaels said.
“As Minister for Small and Family Business, I know every contract counts and can make a big difference,” she said.
“I’m proud our government is giving hard-working South Australians a competitive edge and ensuring the economic benefits stay right here in SA.”
The new mandate is part of a $177.5 million commitment to build 400 new affordable homes and refurbish a further 350 to help those most in need during a stressed housing market.
