Understanding what the SA budget means for you

Summary:

The South Australia Government’s 2024-25 budget aims to address cost of living pressures, enhance skills training, and support economic diversification and energy transition. Key initiatives include a $300 energy bill relief for households, a $2.3 billion investment in jobs and skills training, and significant funding for environmental and economic sustainability. Additionally, the budget allocates resources for housing energy upgrades, remote area energy supply improvements, and support for women in trades.

Cost of living relief

South Australian households will receive a $300 energy bill relief in 2024-25, funded by the Commonwealth Government. The Social Housing Energy Upgrade Initiative will also see a $35.8 million investment over three years to improve energy efficiency in public and community housing, benefiting over 3,500 homes. This initiative is co-funded equally by the Commonwealth and state governments.

Australian,One,Hundred,Dollar,($100),Banknotes,Background

Skills and training

The budget dedicates $2.3 billion over five years to the National Skills Agreement, supporting TAFE SA, not-for-profits, and other training providers. Key components include:

$53.1 million to increase the VET workforce and develop curriculum aligned with state economic priorities.
$56.2 million to support students with financial and wellbeing assistance, secure housing, and career information.
$275.6 million to expand training places by 35%, prioritising future skills in defence, health, construction, early childhood education, clean energy, and ICT. This includes a 20% increase in TAFE SA places in regional areas.

Economic diversification and energy transition

To solidify South Australia’s leadership in clean energy and sustainable economic activity, the budget includes:

$28 million over four years to enhance the state’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) credentials.
$4.1 million over four years to support large-scale hydrogen and renewable energy projects.

Housing and homelessness

The budget addresses housing and homelessness through various initiatives, including:

$35.8 million for social housing energy upgrades, providing insulation and efficient appliance replacements.
$500,000 to support the Remote Area Energy Supply Scheme, addressing diesel fuel price increases in remote communities.

Remote area energy supply

The Remote Area Energy Supply (RAES) scheme, with a budget of approximately $19.1 million in 2024-25, ensures reliable and sustainable electricity supply to remote communities. Recent investments include $6.8 million for a solar hybrid power station in Oodnadatta, reducing diesel consumption and improving energy stability.

Supporting women in trades

The budget supports initiatives to address skills shortages and encourage women in trades through programs like Women in Civil, BuildHer Campaign, and Brick and Blocklaying projects. Additionally, $46 million is allocated to extend superannuation payments on unpaid parental leave for public sector employees.