Media Release by The Hon Tanya Pibersek MP

Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan supporting construction jobs in Adelaide’s western suburbs

Joint Media Release with:

  • Steve Georganas MP, Member for Hindmarsh

Tanya Plibersek and Member for Hindmarsh, Steve Georganas today visited Adelaide’s western suburbs, where over $1.81 million is being spent to upgrade 22 social housing dwellings as part of the Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan.

Ms Plibersek and Mr Georganas said the investment is an important part of the Rudd Government’s efforts to support local jobs during these tough global economic times.

Ms Plibersek said the Rudd Government is investing close to $30 million by mid-2010 right across South Australia on social housing repairs and maintenance.

“The Rudd Government’s $6.4 billion investment to build 20,000 social housing dwellings across Australia will stimulate the building and construction industry and has been estimated by Treasury to support 15,000 jobs nationally over the next two years,” Ms Plibersek said.

“Nearly 70 percent of the Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan is infrastructure and these construction projects are now underway.

“When the stimulus package gets up to full steam in about 12 months, there will be around 35,000 individual construction projects around the country.

“It’s not just about jobs for builders and tradies but also associated industries such as building manufacturers and suppliers who help keep the Australian economy ticking over.”

“In addition, there is the important social benefit of providing more affordable housing to people who need it the most.

Mr Georganas welcomed today’s visit to Henley Beach.

“The Rudd Government is taking practical steps through its Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan to cushion the impact of the global financial crisis by supporting jobs in the construction sector,” Mr Georganas said.

“I’m delighted that more than $1.8 million will be spent on social housing repairs and maintenance in Adelaide’s western suburbs by the middle of next year to help support jobs in my electorate.

“The Rudd Government is committed to ensuring we pull out all stops to meet our tight delivery deadlines. It’s great to see local jobs are being protected during these tough global economic times.”