Supporting workers through career transition in Whyalla
21 February 2025
Whyalla City Council is looking to assist workers that have been affected by the downturn in mining and steelmaking over recent months by supporting programs to get them back into the workforce as quickly as possible.
This is also being backed up by support from the Federal and State governments, which are not only assisting with immediate payments for local steelworks and mines creditors, but also providing small local business support grants for those indirectly impacted by the downturn.
Despite recent positive announcements regarding the future of the mines and steelworks, there are still many people who have experienced job loss, redundancy, or business challenges that are in need of support.
Those impacted can now access personalised career counselling and subsidised training opportunities to support their transition into new roles or careers via an initiative delivered by Regional Development Australia Eyre Peninsula (RDAEP) in partnership with the Resources and Engineering Skills Alliance (RESA) and supported by council.
The service provides free, professional, face-to-face career development sessions tailored to individual needs.
Economic Development Manager at RDAEP, Richard Horgan, highlighted the importance of this support for the local workforce.
"The downturn in Whyalla's steelmaking industry has presented challenges for many workers and businesses," Mr Horgan said.
“This initiative ensures that affected individuals have access to career counselling and subsidised training opportunities, equipping them with the skills and qualifications needed to transition into new employment pathways.”
Mayor Phill Stone said council was committed to supporting initiatives that assisted those who were continuing to face challenges.
"Programs like these are essential in ensuring our community has access to the support and resources needed to secure new employment opportunities as quickly as possible," Mayor Stone said.
“Yesterday’s announcement by the Prime Minister and Premier of $60 million in creditor assistance payments; small business support grants; a skills hub; and deferral of government taxes and charges further adds to the support and hopefully goes a long way to getting our business community and workforce back on its feet.”
Through this program, eligible workers, contractors and small businesses can access:
- Fully subsidised training
- Career counselling
- Apprentice support
- A Small Business Fundamentals Program (develop business knowledge and capability through 1:1 mentoring)
- Critical mental health and wellbeing support
To find out more about all of these opportunities, head to this website: https://statedevelopment.sa.gov.au/whyalla.
You can also contact Career Transition Counsellor Paula Wilson direct via 0405 932 711 or paula.wilson@rdaep.org.au.
