SA looks to federal budget for help

South Australia premier Jay Weatherill wants the federal budget to commit to crucial infrastructure projects in the state

The federal government should use next week's budget to "step up and take the lead" in transforming the South Australian economy, Premier Jay Weatherill says.

The premier wants the Abbott government to invest in infrastructure projects across SA and make decisions on issues critical to the state's development.

That would involve providing more funds to help the automotive industry, confirming the next fleet of submarines will be built in Adelaide and also ending uncertainty over the renewable energy target that is holding up $4.2 billion in wind farm development.

"These are all decisions that could make a difference today," Mr Weatherill said.

He has also called for infrastructure investment in SA, including funding for road projects in the far north and more financing to help complete the north-south road corridor through Adelaide.

The two governments have already struck deals on funding two sections of the corridor but not for the northern connector.

SA also wants cash to develop the Strzelecki Track in the far north to open up the Cooper Basin.

"We see big infrastructure spends across the eastern seaboard," Mr Weatherill said.

"We need to see an infrastructure commitment here in South Australia."

The premier is also hoping the federal government will use the budget to reverse last year's decision to cut funding for pensioner concessions on utility bills, council rates, public transport fares and car registrations.

The state government has picked up the tab so far but has not committed to continue doing so after July 1.


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Source: AAP


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