Treasurer Kevin Foley this week said $170 million of the contracts were identified through the work of the State Government’s Industry Capability Network, which had supplied a list of companies that were capable of meeting OZ Minerals’ requirements and performance standards.

“More than $150m of those contracts will be going to local business which is a fantastic result for SA,” he said.

“This equates to more than 2000 jobs created or retained thanks to our efforts.”

SA companies involved in the development of Prominent Hill include Lucas Earthmovers, Krueger Engineering, Ahrens, Nilsen and Bolnar.

The Industry Capability Network SA is a program under the Department of Trade and Economic Development, which works to get local suppliers and businesses involved in major projects.

ICNSA is part of a national organisation that identifies local suppliers with the necessary expertise and resources to bid for and win work with major developers across Australia.

OZ Minerals – formed earlier this year through the merger of Australian-based mining companies Oxiana and Zinifex – is developing one of SA’s largest mines at Prominent Hill, 650km northwest of Adelaide.

The mine is scheduled to begin full production in late 2008.

Prominent Hill general manager Mick Wilkes said the calibre of Australian companies that had contributed to the Prominent Hill project had ensured OZ Minerals was happy to continue supporting local businesses.

“OZ Minerals has a very strong focus on local communities, local industry and local employment,” he said.

“We’re committed to ensuring that they benefit from projects like these.

“This is a global project and we require suppliers who have the proven capacity to deliver at a world standard. The SA Government has linked us with local suppliers who’ve shown they can do just that.”