If government bailouts of companies are the new normal, we need a better strategic vision

By John Quiggin, The University of Queensland The federal government’s announcement of a A$600 million rescue package for Glencore’s copper smelting and refining operations in Mount Isa and Townsville marks a definitive shift in Australia’s industry policy. The announcement follows the $2.4 billion rescue of the Whyalla steelworks, and a smaller assistance package for metals…

Federal, SA governments tip in an extra $275 million for Whyalla steelworks as sales process continues

The federal and South Australian governments have announced an additional $275 million in funding to support operations, workers and suppliers at the Whyalla Steelworks as the sales process continues. KordaMentha were appointed as administrators in February, with the state and federal governments announcing support totalling $2.4 billion for the site soon after. This was described…

Whyalla steelworks was ‘relying on luck for safety’ before administration

The Whyalla steelworks was losing $1.5 million per day before being forced into administration, burning through nearly $320 million in seven months, administrators KordaMentha revealed at a creditors meeting on Monday. The administrators outlined total debts exceeding $1.34 billion, including $189 million in outstanding employee entitlements and $40.2 million owed to the South Australian government…

How Whyalla can be upgraded to green steel and why we need to keep steel production in Australia

Daniel Rossetto, University of Adelaide Financial challenges at the Whyalla steelworks in South Australia have reignited debate about the nation’s steel industry and its future. Australians should have access to quality steel at competitive prices. The domestic steel production industry employs tens of thousands of people. The state and federal governments have stepped in, however,…

Whyalla steelworks seeks refinancing amid financial struggles

In response to mounting pressures to settle substantial debts, the owners of Whyalla Steelworks, led by GFG Alliance’s chairman Sanjeev Gupta, are actively pursuing new financing solutions to sustain operations. This development follows intense scrutiny from South Australia’s Premier, Peter Malinauskas, who recently visited Whyalla to engage with creditors and reinforce the urgency of financial…

Premier Malinauskas urges GFG’s Gupta to address financial obligations amid concerns for Whyalla steelworks

Premier Peter Malinauskas has issued a stern warning to GFG Alliance’s Sanjeev Gupta, urging transparency and immediate action on overdue financial commitments as concerns mount over the future of the Whyalla Steelworks in South Australia. Amid reports of significant arrears in royalties and payments to contractors, the Premier emphasised the need for Gupta to prioritise…