Federal Member for Grey Tom Venning says the future of the Whyalla Steelworks remains uncertain, after it was listed as a ‘fiscal risk’ in recent Federal budget papers.
The classification relates to a $409 million taxpayer-funded lifeline, part of a broader $2.6 billion joint government rescue package that’s now under pressure.
Mr Venning said the designation raises questions about the plant’s viability, particularly with the ageing blast furnace offline since early April, and warnings more funding may be needed.
“The federal budget papers listing the Whyalla Steelworks as a fiscal risk proves that the current rescue package is built on highly uncertain grounds,” he said.
He also called for greater transparency, saying the community and contractors deserved clearer information about the site’s future.
“They deserve to know exactly what is happening at the plant,” Mr Venning said.
Mr Venning has urged State and Federal Governments to provide certainty for the Whyalla community as the situation continues to evolve.
