SA politicians react to claims moving blue-collar submarine jobs to WA would be mutually beneficial for both states
The WA-based Defence Industry Minister says splitting submarine jobs and moving them to her state would be mutually beneficial.
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Premier Steven Marshall has moved swiftly to stress that South Australia is the “defence state” after the WA-based Defence Industry Minister Melissa Price said a split of submarine maintenance workers between the two states would be a win-win.
The comment by Ms Price has prompted calls from a key crossbench senator for the decision to be made by Prime Minster Scott Morrison’s full Cabinet – rather than the National Security Committee that features three powerful WA minsters but no South Australians.
There is speculation in political circles that a decision on the lucrative Collins Class full-cycle docking contract, that includes 700 jobs in Adelaide, could be decided as early as this week.
The Advertiser last year revealed blue-collar work for the contract could be shifted to WA, while white-collar workers would remain in SA – a move supported by the WA State Government.
Ms Price has not ruled out the split. “That type of arrangement would ensure that we don’t have a winner and a loser,” she said.
“There is plenty of work going around with respect to shipbuilding and particularly full cycle docking. Should that be the ultimate decision then I see that as a win-win for both states.”
Mr Marshall said splitting the jobs made no sense.
“South Australia is now unquestionably the centre of naval shipbuilding in Australia,” he said.
“We designed and built the Collins Class submarines right here in Adelaide … we are rapidly building the workforce that will deliver the new frigates and submarines for navy,” he said.
“Shifting that capability makes no sense given the additional investment in SA and the requirement for that sort of ongoing industrial know-how.”
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said last week an announcement would not be rushed.
SA Centre Alliance Senator Rex Patrick, who the Federal Government relies on to pass controversial legislation in the Senate, wants the decision to go the full cabinet.
“This decision will have impacts that go beyond national security issues, even though those issues will dominate” Senator Patrick told The Sunday Mail
“It would be most appropriate for other perspectives to be considered.
“South Australian Ministers Simon Birmingham and Anne Ruston will surely provide valuable input to any decision.”