KIMBA residents have the opportunity to get involved in investigating economic opportunities and issues associated with the establishment of a national radioactive waste management facility.
As part of the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science’s ongoing consultation, an economic working group consisting of local community members will be established to consider the proposal.
The department is asking community members who want to get involved to submit an expression of interest.
It will be the role of the group’s members to work to consider how economic benefits could be realised, or issues addressed, if Kimba is selected as the location for the national facility.
Opportunities that could come from the facility may include contracting works in construction, ongoing work during operation and flow-on roles in everything from the service industry to tourism.
“This project has potential to generate significant local economic opportunities, and this committee will give locals the chance to directly explore that,” National Radioactive Waste Management Facility Taskforce head Bruce McCleary said.
“We know that local community members are best placed to highlight where there are local opportunities, and where more opportunities need to be created.
“Members of the group will work with the Kimba consultative committee and the department’s project team to discuss the ways the proposed facility could enhance the local community.
“The committee members will also be tasked with identifying any economic activities that could be impacted by the facility.
“This new group is based on the model that we have successfully implemented in Barndioota, from which many ideas are already coming.
“I encourage all interested local community members – those for, against or undecided on the proposal, to put in an expression of interest in joining the Kimba economic working group.”
The Kimba Economic Working Group will consist of a maximum of 10 members, including a chairperson. Expressions of interest are now open and close 5pm March 13.
For more information on the selection criteria and how to apply to be a member of the Economic Working Group, go to www.radioactivewaste.gov.au.
