The Whyalla Steelworks is expanding its workforce as part of efforts to boost manufacturing output while the sale of the business continues under joint administration backed by the South Australian and Federal Governments.
OneSteel Manufacturing Pty Ltd has announced the need for more than 60 skilled workers across the fitting, machinist, mechanical, instrumentation, electrical, and fabricating trades for immediate start.
This comes on top of more than 80 new production operators already recruited since the Malinauskas Government placed the business into administration in February.
In a news release, South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas said the intervention was designed to stabilise operations and secure jobs.
“The extraordinary intervention we made to place the steelworks into administration has delivered much-needed stability to Whyalla – with more well paid, secure jobs,” Malinauskas said.
“The Steelworks has already employed an additional 83 skilled workers, and is hunting another 60 tradespeople in a variety of roles.”
The recruitment drive follows record production levels at the steelworks since entering administration, supported by more than $100 million in capital expenditure committed by administrators.
Investments have included maintenance, plant upgrades, and operational efficiencies that have contributed to the stronger performance.
The Albanese Government also emphasised the importance of the steelworks to the national economy and its workforce.
“The Albanese Government will always stand up for Australian industry and the good, secure blue-collar jobs it supports,” Assistant Minister for Trade and Manufacturing Tim Ayres said.
“[The] announcement of the Steelworks seeking 60 additional tradespeople is proof that the decisive intervention by the Australian and South Australian Governments has stabilised the Whyalla Steelworks, keeping workers in jobs and ensuring this critical steelmaking asset continues to operate while a suitable long-term owner is found.”
All new recruits will receive full training, competitive remuneration and benefits, along with 12-hour shift rates and penalties.
Malinauskas added that interest from potential buyers was strong, highlighting the importance of the facility to global steelmakers.
“These workers are putting the Steelworks on a much safer, stable and productive footing, and setting it up for a long-term future,” he said.
“The sales process continues, with strong interest from high quality, experienced steelmakers from around the globe.”
The Whyalla Steelworks is an Australian manufacturer of special grade billet and steel long products.
