A new group in the South Australian community of Kimba will be charged with investigating all economic opportunities and issues associated with a proposed National Radioactive Waste Management Facility.
Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Matt Canavan today announced the members of the Kimba Economic Working Group, established as part of the Phase Two consultation process that is currently underway in the area.
“Together, the Phase Two community consultation and results of technical studies will help inform a decision on whether the Facility is located at one of the two volunteered sites in Kimba,” Minister Canavan said.
“Eight people from the Kimba area have been appointed as members, including farmers, Councillors and business owners, and people for, against and neutral on the proposal.
“David Schmidt, long-time Kimba resident and active local community member, has been named as the Group’s Chair.”
Minister Canavan said economic benefits were a key reason supporters of the proposal want it in Kimba, while concerns about possible impacts on the economy were a primary issue for people who don’t support it.
“That’s why the work of this Economic Working Group is so important.
“A full understanding of the economic benefits, issues or impacts is an essential part of this process, and will inform the community’s decision on whether to host a radioactive waste industry.
“Members of the Group will look at what the economic impacts could be, and how the community can best exploit them, if the facility was to be established in Kimba.
“Economic areas that might be of interest include construction, operation, tourism, grain prices, reputation and a whole host of other factors.
“Local community members know what their area needs, what benefits can be best harnessed and what impacts could arise – and this forum will allow them to explore the issues.”
The Kimba Group mirrors successfully established group around the Wallerberdina Station site, which is already developing a range of ideas on how local business could benefit from a Facility.
The Kimba Economic Working Group will meet on about a monthly basis for the duration of the Phase Two consultation process.
Members of the Kimba Economic Working Group are:
- David Schmidt (Chair)
- Charlie Milton
- Christine Marie Lehmann
- Dean Johnson
- Deb Larwood
- Heather Baldock
- Laura Fitzgerald
- Patricia Beinke
For more project information: www.radioactivewaste.gov.au .
Authorised by Senator M Canavan, Rockhampton