The Elizabeth factory was closed last October, bringing an end to the automotive industry in Australia and has since been renamed to Lionsgate Business Park.

Melbourne-based developer, Pelligra Group, bought the site for an undisclosed fee in December.

“We are incredibly excited and supportive of the GFG Alliance’s bid and subsequent plans to ensure the continuation of our very proud history of automotive excellence and innovation in South Australia,” said Koutsantonis in a letter, which was quoted by The Advertiser.

“We believe that the GFG Alliance’s plans would put South Australia at the forefront of the inevitable transition of the Australian market to electric vehicles and ask that all due consideration be given to their bid and the potentially significant benefits to the automotive industry and broader community in South Australia.”

The news comes at the same time as a boost for the local Whyalla steelworks, after Gupta’s SIMEC Mining was granted two iron ore leases in South Australia.

Between them the Iron Sultan and Iron Warrior will support 56 permanent workers and 130 contractors.

Source: Manufacturers'Monthly  ||  January 25, 2018   |||