The State Government has received a tremendous response to the first month of consultation on the merits of changing South Australia’s time-zone.

The Minister for Investment and Trade Martin Hamilton-Smith who is leading the consultation process said the State Government has been inundated with hundreds of submissions.

“It has been encouraging to read the high level of discussion flowing onto the YourSAy website, from comments, through to emails and formal submissions,” Mr Hamilton-Smith said.

“This consultation process has highlighted the wide range of issues that are affected by the notion of time from sporting fixtures to public service administration and business transactions.

“The Restaurant and Catering Association which represents 2,000 restaurants, cafes and caterers highlighted that a change to Australian Eastern Standard time would provide surety to tourists, recreational and business travellers when planning itineraries and events.

“South Australia’s commercial television networks have also provided a joint submission to support aligning with the Eastern states, which highlighted the benefits of up to the minute national news and current affairs, and live social media interaction with popular programs.

“The State Government acknowledges that other members of the public may be concerned about how a change would affect them depending on where they live and work and the lifestyle they prefer to lead – that is why we are encouraging anyone with a view to submit it.

“In the coming weeks the State Government will launch an online video involving prominent South Australian identities to spark discussion on a time-zone shift,” said Mr Hamilton-Smith.

“The State Government will also conduct a wide reaching regional roadshow from Mount Gambier in the East through to Ceduna in the West.

“This consultation is exploring whether South Australia’s time-zone is a barrier to our social and economical activities.

“South Australia’s half-hour time differential can cause confusion across many aspects of our daily lives.

“It has long been argued that synchronising our watches with the majority of Australians will attract investment, jobs and allow South Australia to thrive.

“Changing our time-zone may also present an opportunity to better connect our state with Australia and the world.

“By initiating a public discussion, the government will explore the issues with the community so together we can make a judgement about what time-zone will best help South Australian people and businesses to thrive.

The time-zone consultation period ends Friday April 10.

To provide a submission visit: www.yoursay.sa.gov.au