Hon Stephen Dawson questions the Minister for Regional Development regarding the Kimberley Agricultural Investment project, focusing on local employment, training for Indigenous people, use of 457 visas, and job impacts if the sugar mill is cancelled. The Minister's response is somewhat vague.

AnsweredQoN 569Legislative Council
Asked
18 September 2013
Portfolio
Regional Development

QuestionView source ↗

ORD–EAST KIMBERLEY EXPANSION PROJECT —
KIMBERLEY AGRICULTURAL INVESTMENT
569. Hon STEPHEN DAWSON to the
minister representing the Minister for Regional Development:
I refer to the Kimberley Agricultural Investment Pty Ltd
project earmarked for Ord stage 2, which is significantly different from the
proposal announced in November last year.
(1) What are
the minimum criteria placed upon KAI in relation to the number of local workers
to be employed?
(2) What
training and development requirements have been agreed for the Miriuwung and
Gajerrong people?
(3) Has the
company had any discussions regarding using 457 visas to import staff to work
on this project?
(4) If the
sugar mill does not go ahead, how many of the 350 construction and 400
operational jobs will now be delivered to the WA economy?

AnswerView source ↗

I thank the member for some notice of this question.
(1) There will
be a range of employment opportunities for local people and businesses in all
facets of the Ord stage 2 project. It is noted that KAI has already commenced
the employment of local people to undertake the early works for farm
development as well as administrative support roles.
(2) Training
and development requirements for the Miriuwung and Gajerrong people are
currently being discussed as part of the development of an Aboriginal
development package between KAI and MG Corporation.
(3) I am
advised that of the 19 workers currently employed by KAI, two are on work
visas.
(4) Employment
opportunities on all aspects of the project will arise as the project continues
to develop.

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