MEDIA RELEASE
Monday 2 May 2016
Where will South Australia’s future jobs come from?
A public forum tonight will explore the big question about where South Australia’s future jobs will come from in the face of the rapid transformation in our energy and manufacturing systems.
Organised by the Conservation Council of SA in partnership with the Adelaide Festival of Ideas, the free forum brings together a stellar line-up of local and interstate experts.
“South Australia’s economy is going through an incredible time of change. We can no longer rely on the industries of the past,” said Conservation Council SA Chief Executive, Craig Wilkins.
“A transition in our energy systems, particularly with the phenomenal growth in solar and storage technology, is inevitable. This transition is no longer being led by Government policy, but by shifts in prices and markets.
“However, the big question is how we can make sure we maximise local jobs and local manufacturing from this transition, and share the benefits with all parts of society. This is the big economic and social challenge of our time.
“What is essential is that any future planning for manufacturing and our energy systems must be connected to ensure South Australia gains the true jobs benefit,” he said.
Tonight's event will be followed by a larger discussion advancing the 'Jobs in a Transforming Economy' theme as part of the Festival of Ideas in October.
TONIGHT – Monday, 2nd May 2016, 5.45pm for 6pm – 7.30pm
Allan Scott Auditorium - UniSA City West Campus, Adelaide
Speakers:
Martin Haese, Lord Mayor, City of Adelaide
Giles Parkinson, Founding Editor, RenewEconomy
Professor John Spoehr, Director, Australian Industrial Transformation Institute, Flinders Uni
Catherine Way, Industry Development Manager, Renewables SA
Heather Smith, Energy and climate change specialist, Changing Weather
Facilitator: Dr Kristin Alford, Director - Science Creativity Education (Sci.C.Ed) Studio, UniSA
Media Contact: Meg Sobey 0411 028 930, or Craig Wilkins 0417 879 439