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Government of South Australia - Department of State Development

    2023-24 Annual Report

    From the Chief Executive

    DIIS Adam Reid small

    Our focus was on delivering policies and programs that not only deliver on the South Australian Government’s ambitious economic agenda, but seek to bring industry, the innovation and research sector and the workforce together on a journey of growth.

    The successful passage of legislation to establish a new Adelaide University was a notable highlight of the year. Bringing together the best of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia, the new university will be a critical driver of the State’s future. Together with Flinders University, they represent the cornerstone of not only the State’s research excellence, but also the supply of the skilled workforce needed for the future.

    The development of the State’s workforce has been a significant priority of the past year. As co-chair of the South Australian Defence Industry Workforce and Skills Taskforce, I am particularly proud of the Department’s work to not only develop the South Australian Defence Industry Workforce and Skills Report and Action Plan, but also drive the implementation of the 18 initiatives outlined in the Action Plan in full partnership with industry, unions, and education and training providers. This critical Plan sets out the approach, and financial commitment by the State and Commonwealth, to deliver current and planned naval shipbuilding and sustainment programs in South Australia, including nuclear-powered submarine construction under the AUKUS partnership.

    The Department has also taken significant steps to understand and address the workforce gaps being faced across our other major industries. Strategic workforce plans have been, or are being, developed for hydrogen, the construction sector, as well as a State Workforce Plan, and a soon to commence Aboriginal Workforce Plan. These plans will guide and drive action to build the skilled workforce the State needs into the future.

    The Department has not only been focussed on supporting our largest industries, as June 2024 marks the first anniversary of the South Australian Small Business Strategy. This year has been a year of major delivery for the sector, with programs providing direct support to build capability to over 9,200 small and family business across the State.

    We recognise that science, research, and industry collaboration are fundamental drivers of innovation, and we have continued to support research excellence, collaboration, translation and commercialisation through the Research and Innovation Fund and the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy.

    It has been an incredibly productive year for the Department and the establishment of the new Department of State Development from 1 July 2024 provides exciting opportunities for the year ahead.

    Overview: about the agency

    Our Purpose

    The Department for Industry, Innovation and Science supports sustainable economic growth by assisting South Australian industries and businesses to succeed in a local and global environment.

    Our Vision

    A smart, sustainable and inclusive South Australian economy underpinned by excellence in research and innovation, higher education, industrial capability and a skilled workforce.

    Our Values

    Our values are based on the Public Sector Values, and we will uphold these values in our decisions, actions and interactions:

    Genuine – we do what we say

    Respect – we are inclusive and listen

    Empowered – we are open and courageous

    Aligned – we act and deliver as one

    Trusted – we back each other

    Our functions, objectives and deliverables

    The Department for Industry, Innovation and Science will help deliver sustainable economic growth and a productive, resilient economy underpinned by science, technology and enterprise.

    The department develops integrated policy advice and delivers targeted programs, projects and services that enable industries and businesses to succeed in the global environment.

    The department’s objectives to support economic growth are:

    • Grow innovative and productive industries and businesses
    • Improve the state’s industrial capability and capacity
    • Develop a high performing research and innovation system
    • Support industry to get the skilled workforce it needs
    • A high performing, collaborative, agile and innovative organisational culture.

    Success across these strategic objectives will help achieve the following long-term outcomes:

    • Globally recognised research and translation connected to industry
    • Business growth and sustainability
    • Increased development and retention of a skilled workforce in South Australia
    • Increased productivity across business and industry.
    Orgchart 23 2024 ar

    During 2023-24 there were the following changes to the agency’s structure and objectives as a result of internal reviews or machinery of government changes.

    • From 1 October 2023, the creative industries function (including the Music Development Office) transferred to the Department of the Premier and Cabinet.

    At the end of May 2023, machinery of government changes that impact DIIS were announced, and these came into effect on 1 July 2024:

    • The Department for Industry, Innovation and Science renamed to the Department of State Development (DSD).
    • Trade and investment functions of the former Department for Trade and Investment (DTI) transferred to DSD.
    • Brand SA transferred from the former DTI to DSD.
    • The Office of the Agent-General transferred from the former DTI to DSD.
    • The Population Strategy administrative function transferred from the Department of the Premier and Cabinet to DSD.
    • Skills SA transferred from the Department for Education to DSD.
    • The South Australian Skills Commission transferred from the Department for Education to DSD.

    Hon Susan Close MP

    Susan Close is the Deputy Premier of South Australia and the Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, and Minister for Workforce and Population Strategy. Susan has been the Member for Port Adelaide since 2012.

    Before entering parliament, Susan was an executive in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and played a key role in the establishment of the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary as a community advocate.

    She previously worked at the University of Adelaide managing student services and holds a PhD from Flinders University. Susan is a fierce advocate for women in the workplace, passionate about ensuring accessible and quality education for all, deeply concerned about protecting nature, and driven to deliver the best economic outcomes for South Australia so everyone can benefit from a prosperous future for our state.

    Hon Andrea Michaels MP

    Andrea Michaels is the South Australian Minister for Small and Family Business, Minister for Consumer and Business Affairs, and Minister for Arts. She is also the Member for Enfield, representing the community in Adelaide’s inner north and north-eastern suburbs.

    Prior to becoming a Minister, Andrea was running her own small business – a legal practice specialising in commercial law and supporting small and family businesses. She has also been Treasurer of the Law Society of SA, a company director, and a partner at industry leading law firms, as well as a chartered tax advisor and accredited family business advisor.

    Andrea is passionate about promoting diversity, supporting more women to launch and grow businesses, and building safe, fair and friendly communities. She is focused on ensuring the government is easy to do business with, that small businesses are supported to succeed, and that the whole community has access to a thriving cultural and creative sector.

    Adam Reid - Chief Executive

    Andrew Dunbar - Executive Director, Research and Innovation

    Callan Markwick - Executive Director, Industry and Workforce Capability

    Diana Tembak - Executive Director, Portfolio Delivery

    Vy Collins - Director, People & Culture

    Ryan Shepherd - Director, Strategic Communications and Customer Experience

    Adelaide University Act 2023

    Flinders University Act 1966

    Torrens University Australia Act 2013

    University of Adelaide Act 1971

    University of South Australia Act 1990

    StudyAdelaide

    The agency’s performance

    The department supports sustainable economic growth by developing innovative and productive industries and businesses that leverage South Australia’s strengths.

    During 2023-24, the department continued to deliver support and assistance to small businesses in communities impacted by the River Murray flood event.

    Highlights from 2023-24:

    • Delivered the state’s General Skilled Migration program fulfilling the Commonwealth’s allocation, helping businesses and industry access a skilled workforce to meet skill gaps in the local market.
    • Extended and negotiated enhancements to the Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA) to support local businesses in more key growth industries to access the overseas workers they need. South Australia’s employers continued to strongly utilise the Regional Workforce DAMA in critical sectors, such as aged and disabled care and agriculture.
    • Continued to invest in research talent, research infrastructure, industry-research collaboration and high-growth, high-impact potential early-stage businesses.
    • Growing capacity in, and increased awareness and adoption of, critical technologies by industry, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, photonics, quantum technologies and cyber security.
    • The Innovation Leaders Network (ILN) Program was launched to foster the exchange of knowledge between accomplished entrepreneurs and emerging startups with high growth potential.
    • Launched the Fearless Innovator Program to support female business founders, and continued support for the _SOUTHSTART conference.
    • Supported the successful passage of legislation (Adelaide University Act 2023) to create the new Adelaide University, with continued support provided throughout the transition period ahead of Adelaide University becoming fully operational in 2026.
    • Continued strengthening and diversifying the teaching profession in South Australia by supporting targeted cohorts commencing a teaching degree across the three public universities through the Enabling Educator Excellence Scholarship Program.
    • Investigated, analysed and reported on the number and accessibility of nursing and midwifery scholarships to inform workforce gaps and shortages in areas of need for nursing and midwifery.
    • Progressed support for Italian language initiatives at Flinders University and the University of South Australia that deliver a positive impact to students and improve outcomes for Italian language in South Australia.
    • Continued to provide a clear entry point for small and family businesses to access State Government information and supports through the Office for Small and Family Business.
    • Launched South Australia’s Small Business Strategy 2023-2030, designed to support small businesses to adapt, grow and succeed, now and into the future.
    • Continued to deliver and expand on the Women in Business Program to improve the success and growth prospects of female-owned and led businesses in South Australia with over 1,750 participants accessing the supports available through this Program in 2023-24.
    • Delivered Small Business Week 2024, providing metropolitan and regional businesses with access to tools, information and resources, and to recognise the contribution of small businesses to South Australia’s economy and the broader community.
    • Continued to support small businesses impacted by the River Murray Flood event through the delivery of grants and financial counselling services.
    • Connected South Australian suppliers to key projects in defence, energy (including hydrogen), mining, water, infrastructure and construction sectors.
    • Mapped South Australia’s Hydrogen Supply Chains and identified over 2000 local businesses capable of providing services to the emerging hydrogen sector.
    • Launched South Australia’s Advanced Manufacturing Strategy to guide future industry and government collaboration, grow manufacturing, and drive the state’s economic transition towards a knowledge-based, resilient, and greener economy.
    • Launched a concierge service to provide bespoke support to manufacturers looking to collaborate and grow. The service was established in October 2023 as part of the Advanced Manufacturing Strategy to better coordinate industry, research and government investment into manufacturing.
    • Continued bridging the gap between research, industry leaders, and South Australia’s small business community to accelerate the adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies through the Manufacturing Growth Accelerator with Flinders University at the Tonsley Innovation District Factory of the Future site.
    • Delivered programs to local manufacturers that focus on industrial capability and innovation to become more competitive through the adoption of innovative manufacturing technologies, and to take advantage of new opportunities in areas such as the green economy in Australia and overseas.
    • Delivered the South Australian Defence Industry Workforce and Skills Report and Action Plan in collaboration with the Commonwealth Government, which aims to build a skilled workforce to deliver sovereign defence capabilities. Since launch of the report in November 2023, 60% of the initiatives announced are successfully now in market.
    • Supporting priority industry and regions to access the skilled workforce they need through undertaking workforce planning, developing workforce plans and strategies and implementing workforce development initiatives.

    Agency objectives

    Indicators

    Performance

    Support industry to get the skilled workforce it needs – delivery of skilled and business migration programs to help business and industry access skilled workforce.

    Deliver South Australia’s skilled, employer sponsored and business migration programs to attract the skills and investment to help business and industry access a skilled workforce to meet skill gaps in the local market.

    2,300 state nominations approved for the General Skilled Migration program.

    Employer sponsored positions supported by South Australia as the Regional Certifying Body total 56.

    Under the Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMAs), 100 new labour agreements and 29 variations to existing labour agreements were supported.

    758 positions endorsed under the DAMAs.

    104 DAMA skills assessments approved.

    DAMAs extended to 30 June 2025 and broadened to include occupations in construction, cyber security and renewable energy.

    Development and implementation of Attraction, Connection and Retention Strategy for Skilled Migration to facilitate better connections between local employers and job ready skilled migrants in South Australia and to increase the State’s attractiveness to overseas skilled migrants.

    462 Overseas Qualification Recognition certificates issued.

    183 second stage business migration applications reviewed and processed.

    Develop a high performing research and innovation system –supporting technology adoption and the translation and commercialisation of research through industry, research and government collaboration – investing in global excellence in South Australian science and research.

    Number of science and research projects supported, and amount invested.

    The department continued to make strategic investments to strengthen South Australia’s science, research and innovation system. Since 2014, the department has committed $118.5 million to 84 projects and initiatives, which have leveraged $861.4 million from the Australian Government and industry.

    Develop a high performing research and innovation system – encouraging and supporting technology adoption.

    Number of industry events held at the Australian Cyber Collaboration Centre.

    The department supported the increased awareness and resilience of cyber threats to South Australian industry through the Australian Cyber Collaboration Centre, which has hosted over 250 industry events and over 131 training programs since launching in 2020.

    Develop a high performing research and innovation system – delivering programs and services to entrepreneurs and startups that build capability and attract private sector capital and customers.

    Number of startup and early-stage companies supported, and amount of private investment in innovative early-stage companies.

    Number of entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem initiatives supported.

    In 2023-24, 11 early-stage companies were supported with funding through the Seed-Start Program, an initiative under the Research and Innovation Fund (RIF).

    Since the Seed Start Program commenced in 2019, 62 early-stage companies have received funding totalling $17.27 million. These companies have reported raising an additional $125.2 million in capital, creating a net increase of 266.5 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) jobs and generating an additional $47.2 million in revenue.

    Continued funding support for the Startup Hub at Lot Fourteen, managed by Stone and Chalk. Since its opening in 2019, residents of the Startup Hub at Lot Fourteen have collectively raised more than $198 million in venture capital and other sources of funding and have created 803 jobs.

    The South Australian Venture Capital Fund (SAVCF) has invested in 11 early-stage business totalling $30.3 million which has leveraged a further $135.9 million from co-investors, created 593 direct and indirect jobs and supported the commercialisation of 22 products, with $78 million invested in R&D in South Australia.

    Develop and implement policies and programs and undertake strategic engagement with education providers to build a progressive higher and international education sector.

    Establish the new Adelaide University.

    Attract international students to South Australia.

    Supported the passage of legislation (Adelaide University Act 2023) to create the new Adelaide University.

    In the 2023 calendar year:

    - 54,414 international students were enrolled in South Australian education providers. - international education was valued at $3.15 billion.

    Grow innovative and productive industries and businesses – delivering programs and services for small and family businesses.

    Number of businesses provided with solutions to support their growth and competitiveness.

    7,968 businesses provided with information or solutions, including support for small businesses in response to the River Murray flood event, in 2023-24.

    Grow innovative and productive industries and businesses – delivering programs and services for small and family businesses.

    Number of businesses supported to build capability.

    9,223 businesses supported to build skills and capability through the Office for Small and Family Business in 2023-24.

    Grow innovative and productive industries and businesses – delivering targeted capability development programs to address capability and knowledge gaps, build stronger foundations, and accelerate growth.

    Number of women supported to build capability through the Women in Business Program.

    1,750 participants supported to build skills and capability through the Women in Business Foundations Program (1,674) and the Women in Business Advisory Program (76) in 2023-24.

    Since the Program’s inception in October 2022, over 2,300 women have been supported to build their capability.

    Grow innovative and productive industries and businesses – connecting businesses to contract opportunities within major projects.

    Amount of contract wins facilitated through Industry Capability Network SA (ICNSA).

    52 local businesses supported by ICNSA to win contracts for major projects to the value of $204.6 million.

    Support industry to get the skilled workforce it needs – delivering workforce development initiatives designed and implemented with industry and regions.

    Key performance indicators negotiated and included in workforce development funding agreements with key delivery partners, with outcomes reported annually.

    Progress and achievements of leading the implementation of the SA Defence Industry Workforce and Skills Action Plan.

    Three Regional Workforce Connector and Collaboration programs with the RDA Murraylands and Riverland, RDA Limestone Coast and RDA Eyre Peninsula, was delivered across 2023 and 2024 to undertake place-based initiatives to deliver workforce outcomes for each region. The program concluded in June 2024. Through the program, 555 employers engaged in workforce planning or capability building activities, 308 employers were engaged in Employer of Choice programs, and 157 employers were assisted to develop cultural and inclusive practices. Nearly 13,500 jobs were logged on the regional Jobs Boards.

    Forte pilot program has concluded the study phase. As at January 2024, a total of 138 participants have graduated (88% of total). Currently, a total of 68 (49%) graduates have found employment, and this is expected to increase as the pilot progresses. Forte are providing additional support and recruitment services to help graduates who are still looking for employment.

    Since November 2023, 60 percent of the 22 SA Defence Industry Workforce and Skills Action Plan initiatives have been successfully launched into the market. Highlights against key initiatives include:

    • Expand STEM scholarships for secondary students: A total of 71 STEM scholarships awarded.
    • Degree Apprenticeship Pilots: The first cohort of 13 commenced the Software Engineering Degree Apprenticeship early in 2024 with the University of South Australia, BAE, ASC and Consunet.
    • The University of Adelaide and Flinders are expected to meet the additional Commonwealth Supported Places caps in 2024 (120 places for 2024).
    • 38 students (30% diverse groups) in Defence Industry Leadership Program.
    • Entry Level VET Pathway for Aircraft Maintenance School student program commenced with a total of 25 students spread across 12 schools.

    Improve the state’s industrial capability and capacity – delivering industry programs that build on our state’s competitive strengths, increase value adding activity, and support the knowledge-based jobs of the future.

    Key performance indicators negotiated in manufacturing-focused funding agreements, with outcomes reported annually.

    The department is actively managing funding agreements with key South Australian manufacturing initiatives and businesses.

    The Manufacturing Growth Accelerator at Tonsley, delivered by Flinders University, is building the capabilities of manufacturers in advanced manufacturing technologies. Three accelerator projects have been approved, one of which is complete, and several project proposals are in the pipeline.

    Local apparel manufacturer Belgravia, which received funding support as part of the project to support its expansion plans, opened its new expanded facility on 1 December 2023. Outcomes from this expansion include hiring four new full-time equivalent employees, and gaining ISO9001, ISO14001 and ISO45001 accreditation which has subsequently resulted in the company winning new international contracts.

    Improve the state’s industrial capability and capacity – supporting manufacturers to increase competitiveness and accelerate sustainable growth.

    Number of manufacturers supported through the concierge service and other initiatives.

    130 manufacturers were engaged by the department’s Concierge Service to facilitate applications to the manufacturing component of the Economic Recovery Fund.

    52 manufacturers attended three Emerging Technology Interest Group sessions, with topics including Industrial Internet of Things, Collaborative Robots and a tour of the South Australian Node of the Australian National Fabrication Facility, to demonstrate how local manufacturers can access the facility’s world-class equipment and technical excellence in design, fabrication, and testing of micro-scale devices.

    18 manufacturers participated in the Green Economy Catalyst Program. Developed in collaboration with the Australian Industry Group, Food SA and Green Industries SA, the program has helped manufacturers take advantage of new opportunities arising from the green economy, improve their green credentials, capture new business opportunities and profitably reduce waste.

    Employment opportunity programs

    Program name

    Performance

    DIIS Graduate Program

    The department’s Graduate Program is a structured development program that includes a rotational placement across business units over a 24-month employment period.

    The department continued to employ two graduates who commenced with the department in February 2022. Both graduates were appointed to funded roles at the conclusion of their program.

    Traineeships

    The department continued to host one trainee employed by a group training organisation as part of the now concluded Skilling SA Program, which supported training and skills development to address skill shortages across the private and public sectors.

    The trainee was appointed to a funded role at the conclusion of their program.

    Agency performance management and development systems

    Performance management and development system

    Performance

    Performance management and development is a two-way process between managers and employees to discuss performance planning and development needs. It is expected that employees have formal conversations about their performance twice per year.

    As at 31 December 2023, 47% of employees had recorded that a performance development conversation had taken place in the past six months.

    As at 30 June 2024, 94% of employees had recorded that a performance development conversation had taken place in the past six months.

    Work health, safety and return to work programs

    Program name

    Performance

    Flu vaccination program

    A flu vaccination program was offered to all employees as a combination of onsite clinics and pharmacy vouchers.

    Wellbeing initiatives

    Several training and information sessions to support mental health and wellbeing were provided in the 2023-24 financial year. This included Mental Health First Aid, R U OK Conversations, and Vicarious Trauma Awareness and Support.

    16 departmental executives and senior leaders completed the Crucial Conversations Program to support a speak up culture and increased psychological safety.

    As part of the department’s focus on diversity and inclusion, and to enhance psychological safety, 39 staff participated in Purple Orange disability awareness training sessions.

    The department also provided an Employee Assistance Program, with Corporate Health Group as the external provider.

    To support physical wellbeing, the department encouraged staff to participate in Corporate Cup. Additionally, 32 employees participated in an internal 10,000 Steps Walking Tournament.

    Workstation ergonomic assessments, undertaken by an occupational therapist, was also offered to employees.

    Workplace injury claims

    Current year
    2023-24

    Past year

    2022-23

    % Change
    (+ / -)

    Total new workplace injury claims

    0

    1

    -100%

    Fatalities

    0

    0

    0%

    Seriously injured workers*

    0

    0

    0%

    Significant injuries (where lost time exceeds a working week, expressed as frequency rate per 1000 FTE)

    0

    3.23

    -100%


    *number of claimants assessed during the reporting period as having a whole person impairment of 30% or more under the Return to Work Act 2014 (Part 2 Division 5)

    Work health and safety regulations

    Current year
    2023-24

    Past year

    2022-23

    % Change
    (+ / -)

    Number of notifiable incidents (Work Health and Safety Act 2012, Part 3)

    0

    0

    0%

    Number of provisional improvement, improvement and prohibition notices (Work Health and Safety Act 2012 Sections 90, 191 and 195)

    0

    0

    0%

    Return to work costs**

    Current year
    2023-24

    Past year

    2022-23

    % Change
    (+ / -)

    Total gross workers compensation expenditure ($)

    $2,054.55

    $33,663.53

    -93.9%

    Income support payments – gross ($)

    $0

    $2,959.10

    -100%

    **before third party recovery


    Data for previous years is available at: Data.SA

    Executive employment in the agency

    Executive classification

    Number of executives

    SAES1

    11

    SAES2

    3

    EXEC (Chief Executive)

    1


    Data for previous years is available at: Data.SA

    The Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment has a workforce information page that provides further information on the breakdown of executive gender, salary and tenure by agency.

    Financial performance at a glance

    The following is a brief summary of the overall financial position of the agency. The information is unaudited. Full audited financial statements for 2022-2023 are attached to this report.

    Statement of Comprehensive Income

    2023-24

    Original Budget

    $000s

    2023-24 Actual

    $000s

    Variation

    $000s

    2022-23 Actual

    $000s

    Total Income

    74 136

    61 643

    (12 493)

    78 370

    Total Expenses

    75 224

    72 224

    (3 000)

    88 217

    Net Result

    (1 088)

    (10 581)

    (9 493)

    (9 847)

    Total Comprehensive Result

    (1 088)

    (10 578)

    (9 490)

    (9 847)

    The department reported a $10.581 million net loss in the 2023-24 financial year. This result is $9.493 million unfavourable compared to original budget. Explanation of major variances is provided at note 1.4 of the full audited financial statements.

    Statement of Financial Position

    2023-24

    Original Budget

    $000s

    2023-24 Actual

    $000s

    Variation

    $000s

    2022-23 Actual

    $000s

    Current assets

    23 375

    17 593

    (5 782)

    30 215

    Non-current assets

    7 917

    8 521

    604

    9 571

    Total assets

    31 292

    26 114

    (5 178)

    39 786

    Current liabilities

    23 476

    7 074

    16 402

    9 301

    Non-current liabilities

    6 856

    11 249

    (4 393)

    12 064

    Total liabilities

    30 332

    18 323

    12 009

    21 365

    Net assets

    960

    7 791

    6 831

    18 421

    Equity

    960

    7 791

    6 831

    18 421

    The department’s net assets at 30 June 2024 were $7.791 million, $6.831 million higher than original budget, mainly due to a reduction in current payables, partially offset by a reduction in cash.

    Consultants disclosure

    The following is a summary of external consultants that have been engaged by the agency, the nature of work undertaken, and the actual payments made for the work undertaken during the financial year.

    Consultancies with a contract value below $10,000 each

    Consultancies

    Purpose

    $ Actual payment

    All consultancies below $10,000 each - combined

    Various

    $ Nil

    Consultancies with a contract value above $10,000 each

    Consultancies

    Purpose

    $ Actual payment

    2XE Pty Ltd

    Delivery of workshops, consultations, and sustainability assessments to assist South Australian small businesses develop strategies to improve their environmental sustainability and build skills and capability to implement sustainable business practices.

    $ 52 036

    Capgemini Australia Pty Ltd

    Market research to determine appropriate Microsoft Dynamics solutions to meet defined business needs and technical requirements.

    $ 21 505

    Craig Simmons

    Independent Advisor to the South Australian government as Chief Scientist.

    $ 20 833

    David O'Connor

    Independent Advisor on matters relating to the establishment of the new Adelaide University.

    $ 50 850

    Ernst & Young

    Independent advisor to facilitate a review of ICT Services and ICT Operating Model to better align with departmental needs and objectives.

    $ 50 000

    Gray Andreotti Advisory

    Provide commercial advice and analysis of options and a report to drive the vision and economic outcomes of the Tonsley Innovation Precinct.

    $ 50 000

    Total

    $ 245 224

    Data for previous years is available at: Data.SA

    See also the Consolidated Financial Report of the Department of Treasury and Finance for total value of consultancy contracts across the South Australian public sector.

    Contractors with a contract value below $10,000

    Contractors

    Purpose

    $ Actual payment

    All contractors below $10,000 each - combined

    Various

    $ 154 307

    Contractors with a contract value above $10,000 each

    Contractors

    Purpose

    $ Actual payment

    4th Harmonic Pty Ltd

    Support to meet defence skills, workforce and supply chain needs.

    $ 271 242

    4th Harmonic Pty Ltd

    Support for the joint Commonwealth and South Australian Government co-design of a potential Naval Shipbuilding Skills and Training Academy.

    $ 164 942

    Adrienne Curtis

    Business administration services for the Kangaroo Island Business Hub.

    $ 18 720

    AG Security Group

    Security services for Lot Fourteen.

    $ 10 524

    AJ Blunt Painting Contractors

    Painting services for the TechHub.

    $ 13 394

    Alemba Pty Ltd

    Services provided to support the implementation of a new Information Technology Services Management tool.

    $ 13 800

    BDO Services Pty Ltd

    Risk and audit management and strategy services.

    $ 43 273

    Complexity Solutions Pty Ltd

    Engagement support to progress the work of the SA Defence Industry Workforce and Skills Taskforce.

    $ 25 533

    Deloitte Touché Tohmatsu

    Internal communication support for the Green Industrial Transition Roadmap.

    $ 43 450

    Forest Grove Technology Pty Ltd

    Separation of internal budget management systems for the Department for Industry, Innovation and Science, Department for Energy and Mining and Department for Trade and Investment.

    $ 23 111

    Hays Specialist Recruitment (Aust) Pty Ltd

    Temporary labour hire.

    $366 405

    Information Proficiency & Sigma Data Solutions

    Technical and functional review of the Records Management System.

    $ 11 200

    Intellectual Capital Services

    Deliver information sessions and workshops to South Australian manufacturing businesses and stakeholders regarding the opportunities and challenges of the green economy.

    $ 51 000

    Iron Mountain Australia Group

    Transition of archives to the Department for Education.

    $ 39 469

    JP Media Group Pty Ltd

    Copyright and editing services for the Office for Small and Family Business.

    $ 20 000

    Maxima Training Group (Aust) Ltd

    Temporary labour hire.

    $ 13 343

    McMillen International Pty Ltd

    Provision of services, as Chief Scientist, on matters of science, technology, and innovation.

    $ 28 000

    Nilsen (SA) Pty Ltd

    Electrical maintenance services for the TechHub.

    $ 14 836

    PriceWaterhouseCoopers Consulting (Australia) Pty Ltd

    Develop a targeted workforce analysis to address workforce challenges in priority regions.

    $ 59 918

    Randstad Pty Ltd

    Temporary labour hire.

    $ 19 079

    RASU Film & Stills Pty Ltd

    Photography and videography services for the South Australian Science Excellence Awards.

    $ 50 400

    Rural Business Support Service

    Financial counselling for small businesses impacted by the River Murray flood event.

    $ 244 331

    Sarah Creeper Pty Ltd

    Program development support, event management, project management and stakeholder liaison for Small Business Week.

    $ 37 783

    Sarah Creeper Pty Ltd

    Communications support services.

    $ 21 160

    Society Marketing Communications Pty Ltd

    Case study development for the Women in Business program.

    $ 34 750

    VeriFire

    Fire protection services for the TechHub.

    $ 12 089

    Watertec Australia Pty Ltd

    Monthly maintenance and water treatment services for the TechHub.

    $ 13 699

    Watson Fitzgerald & Associates Pty Ltd

    Maintenance services for the TechHub.

    $ 19 289

    YDR Pty Ltd

    Loss adjustment services to assist with the assessment of Small Business Flood Recovery grant applications.

    $ 120 969

    Total

    $ 1 960 016


    Data for previous years is available at: Data.SA

    The details of South Australian Government-awarded contracts for goods, services, and works are displayed on the SA Tenders and Contracts website. View the agency list of contracts.

    The website also provides details of across government contracts.

    Risk and audit at a glance

    The department is committed to establishing, integrating, and embedding risk management within its operations.

    The department’s Risk and Audit Committee (RAC), in its advisory capacity, continued to assist the Chief Executive to fulfil its responsibilities in matters relating to integrity of the financial statements, compliance with relevant legal and regulatory requirements, performance of the internal audit function and efficient and effective management of all aspects of risk. The RAC is chaired by an external member and met five times in 2023-24.

    The department’s Executive Leadership Committee (ELC) undertook a Strategic Risk Assessment Review in February 2024 to develop an updated Strategic Risk Register. The ELC identified eight strategic risks which have been assigned for implementation of risk mitigation strategies, monitoring and reporting, with oversight provided by the ELC and the RAC.

    Internal audit projects, reviews of compliance and policies, procedures, and frameworks, and other assurance activities were regularly performed to test, support and enhance the effectiveness of internal controls.

    Fraud detected in the agency

    Category/nature of fraud

    Number of instances

    Suspected fraudulent claims under grants programs administered by the Department

    0

    NB: Fraud reported includes actual and reasonably suspected incidents of fraud.

    Strategies implemented to control and prevent fraud

    The department has a zero tolerance to fraud, corruption, intentional and serious misconduct, or substantial maladministration of any type. The department’s Fraud Control Policy, Procedure and Plan outline the department’s approach to preventing, detecting, and responding to fraud, corruption, misconduct, and maladministration.

    The department continues to employ the following strategies to prevent and control fraud:

    • Complaints Management Policy and Procedure
    • Conflicts of Interest Procedure
    • Employee screening
    • Enterprise Risk Management Framework
    • Financial authorisations
    • Financial Management Control Plan
    • Financial policies and procedures
    • Fraud Control Policy, Procedure and Plan
    • Gifts and Benefits Framework and Register
    • Grants Management Framework
    • Internal Audit Program
    • Outside Employment Procedure
    • Public Interest Disclosure Procedure.

    On 1 May 2023, the Independent Commissioner Against Corruption (ICAC) announced that the department was selected for an evaluation of practices, policies and procedures related to the administration of grants programs. On 28 November 2023, the ICAC’s report on the first phase of its evaluation was tabled in both Houses of Parliament, and 15 recommendations were made to enable the department to better recognise and address corruption risks in grants administration. As at 30 June 2024, all recommendations have been implemented or otherwise finalised by the department.

    Data for previous years is available at: Data.SA

    Public interest disclosure

    Number of occasions on which public interest information has been disclosed to a responsible officer of the agency under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2018:

    0

    Data for previous years is available at: Data.SA

    Note: Disclosure of public interest information was previously reported under the Whistleblowers Protection Act 1993 and repealed by the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2018 on 1/7/2019.

    NIL

    Reporting required under the Carers’ Recognition Act 2005

    The Department for Industry, Innovation and Science is an applicable organisation for the purposes of the Carers’ Recognition Act 2005.

    Section 7: Compliance or non-compliance with section 6 of the Carers Recognition Act 2005 and (b) if a person or body provides relevant services under a contract with the organisation (other than a contract of employment), that person's or body's compliance or noncompliance with section 6.

    The department provides online training to staff regarding disability and inclusion, which includes the Carer’s Recognition Act 2005, as well as flexible working and special leave options to assist employees in meeting caring responsibilities.

    Number of public complaints reported

    Complaint categories

    Sub-categories

    Example

    Number of Complaints

    2023-24

    Professional behaviour

    Staff attitude

    Failure to demonstrate values such as empathy, respect, fairness, courtesy, extra mile; cultural competency

    1

    Professional behaviour

    Staff competency

    Failure to action service request; poorly informed decisions; incorrect or incomplete service provided

    0

    Professional behaviour

    Staff knowledge

    Lack of service specific knowledge; incomplete or out-of-date knowledge

    0

    Communication

    Communication quality

    Inadequate, delayed, or absent communication with customer

    0

    Communication

    Confidentiality

    Customer’s confidentiality or privacy not respected; information shared incorrectly

    0

    Service delivery

    Systems/technology

    System offline; inaccessible to customer; incorrect result/information provided; poor system design

    0

    Service delivery

    Access to services

    Service difficult to find; location poor; facilities/ environment poor standard; not accessible to customers with disabilities

    0

    Service delivery

    Process

    Processing error; incorrect process used; delay in processing application; process not customer responsive

    1

    Policy

    Policy application

    Incorrect policy interpretation; incorrect policy applied; conflicting policy advice given

    0

    Policy

    Policy content

    Policy content difficult to understand; policy unreasonable or disadvantages customer

    0

    Service quality

    Information

    Incorrect, incomplete, out-dated or inadequate information; not fit for purpose

    0

    Service quality

    Access to information

    Information difficult to understand, hard to find or difficult to use; not plain English

    0

    Service quality

    Timeliness

    Lack of staff punctuality; excessive waiting times (outside of service standard); timelines not met

    0

    Service quality

    Safety

    Maintenance; personal or family safety; duty of care not shown; poor security service/ premises; poor cleanliness

    0

    Service quality

    Service responsiveness

    Service design doesn’t meet customer needs; poor service fit with customer expectations

    0

    No case to answer

    No case to answer

    Third party; customer misunderstanding; redirected to another agency; insufficient information to investigate

    3

    Total

    5

    Additional metrics

    Total

    Number of positive feedback comments

    0

    Number of negative feedback comments

    5

    Total number of feedback comments

    127

    % complaints resolved within policy timeframes

    100% [5 complaints]


    Data for previous years is available at: Data.SA

    Service improvements

    The department is committed to ensuring information and services are easy to access and welcomes feedback from our customers and the general public.

    Of the 127 feedback comments/enquiries received during 2023-2024, five were complaints, and the remainder were operational enquiries or suggestions referred to the relevant business unit for action.

    These feedback and complaints assist the department to continually improve the overall customer experience and service.

    Compliance statement

    The Department for Industry, Innovation and Science is compliant with Premier and Cabinet Circular 039 – complaint management in the South Australian public sector.

    Y

    The Department for Industry, Innovation and Science has communicated the content of PC 039 and the agency’s related complaints policies and procedures to employees.

    Y

    Download the 2023-24 Annual Report