12 September 2022
South Australia is one step closer to safeguarding key public assets from privatisation after a Green Bill passed the Upper House last Thursday.
The bill introduced by Greens MLC Robert Simms will prevent the sale or disposal of key state assets without consideration of the Economic & Finance Committee and approval of both houses of parliament. Key assets covered by the bill include those of the South Australian Water Corporation, HomeStart Finance, the Motor Accident Commission, the South Australian Forestry Corporation and the Return to Work Corporation. The Bill was supported by the Labor Government.
“Privatisation has been a disaster for South Australians, resulting in higher prices, job losses and reduced public services. This bill will provide an important safeguard, ensuring that no State Government is able to sell off our key public assets without seeking approval from the parliament.”
“Both the Greens and Labor campaigned strongly against privatisation at the last election. I welcome the Labor Government’s support for this bill and wish to thank Treasurer Stephen Mullighan for working collaboratively with me on this important reform. I hope that this will set a precedent for other states across the country to follow.”
Treasurer Mullighan will have carriage of the bill in the Lower House, where it will require support before it becomes law.
The Greens believe if passed this will be the first time a state jurisdiction has moved to safeguard public assets in this way.