South Australians want to change the State’s time zone, according to submissions received during the consultation phase.

Minister for Investment and Trade Martin Hamilton-Smith said more than 1000 people have responded to the consultation since it began in February.

“What is interesting is the numbers so far show a real appetite for change, with 79 per cent of responses so far wanting to shift away from our current time zone,” Mr Hamilton-Smith said.

“Some 42 per cent of respondents favour aligning with the Eastern States’ time zone, while 37 per cent favour moving 30 minutes back towards West Australian time.

“To encourage further debate on this issue the State Government has launched a social media campaign to raise awareness of the potential impacts of any change to South Australia’s time zone,” Mr Hamilton-Smith said.

This includes an online video narrated by South Australian personality Andrew Costello (Cosi) and features Adelaide Strikers player Tim Ludeman, TV presenter David Koch, Regional Development South Australia Chairman and former Premier Rob Kerin, ANZ chairman Jane Yuile, as well as everyday South Australians.

“I encourage South Australians to enter the discussion and share the time zone video on social media with your family, friends and colleagues.

“The State Government will also be holding an Industry Roundtable at Parliament House on Thursday 26 March.

“This will be followed by regional consultation sessions in April in Ceduna, Port Lincoln in the west and Mount Gambier in the south east.

“The first consultation phase will culminate with a public debate at the Adelaide Convention Centre hosted by Leigh McClusky on Thursday 9 April.

“We are reaching out to people, in as many ways as possible, encouraging them to tell us their views.

“Submissions are continuing to arrive and the high level of discussion on the YourSAy website reflects that the time is right for a debate on South Australia’s time zone.

“South Australia’s current time zone was enacted in 1899, when South Australia was a very different place.

“Today we are a much more connected society – it’s time we looked at whether South Australia’s half hour time difference is a hindrance to our social and economic progress.

“So far, the consultation has highlighted issues within the business and finance community, sporting fixtures, travel, tourism and regional communities.

“This first consultation phase will continue until April 10 – the State Government will then assess the feedback and provide a recommendation for further consultation, which will include the advantages and costs associated with each of the options.”

To provide a submission or share your views visit: www.yoursay.sa.gov.au