SA premier slams Abbott over Toyota

SA premier Jay Weatherill has renewed his call for $333 million federal funding after accusing Tony Abbott of indifference over Toyota's closure.

SA premier Jay Weatherill gestures.

SA premier Jay Weatherill (AAP)

South Australia's premier has accused Tony Abbott of indifference and complacency over Toyota's decision to stop building cars in Australia.

Jay Weatherill said the prime minister appeared to be suggesting that the closure of Toyota and Holden and the consequences for the car manufacturing industry will be "just dealt with in some fashion".

"That indifference and complacency is utterly inconsistent with the urgency and leadership role that is needed by governments at all levels," he told journalists on Tuesday.

He again called on the federal government to provide $333 million as part of the state's plan to overcome the loss of the car manufacturing industry.

"If Mr Abbott thinks that $60 million shared with Victoria is enough to support workers and maintain economic activity, he is sorely mistaken," he said.

The state's plan, which estimated that 13,000 SA jobs could be at risk, had taken into account the likelihood of Toyota closing, he said.

"Now that Toyota is going, it is even more important that there is a government prepared to take the lead, to instil the energy and activity that creates opportunities for business and creates jobs."


2 min read

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Updated

Source: AAP


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