Port Wakefield forum to support concerned workers affected by shutdown
WORKERS and suppliers affected by the impending closure of Seven Point Pork at Port Wakefield are encouraged to attend a community forum on July 2 to both access support services and map out their options to remain in the region.
The forum, to be held in the Port Wakefield Soldiers’ Memorial Hall from 6pm, will be a significant information sharing event, where community members can advise relevant government services of their situation but also discuss possible employment pathways available.
Representatives from support agencies including Workskil Australia, atWork Australia, Department of Human Services and Services Australia are also expected to attend.
Wakefield Regional Council is partnering with Regional Development Yorke and Mid North, PIRSA, Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, Department of State Development and Workforce Australia – Local Jobs to deliver the event.
WRC Mayor, Rodney Reid, said the forum is part of the regional response to the upcoming closure, which is aiming to both connect affected workers with new local opportunities but also inform key government agencies about the wider impact of the job losses in the community.
“While we have some understanding of the impact on the local workforce, this event will have implications on the wider region,” Mr Reid said.
“Our priority as a Council is to minimise the amount of people leaving the area and while it is positive workers will have opportunities at sites elsewhere, their collective departure will affect population levels, economic activity and social factors such as volunteer services.”
Mr Reid said there has been groundswell of support from key government agencies including RDA Yorke and Mid North, Workforce Australia – Local Jobs, Department of State Development and the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.
“The response following the closure announcement from JBS was almost instantaneous,” he said.
“The first step in providing a targeted response from the involved agencies for those impacted by the shut down is understanding what people are experiencing, how many are affected and what their needs are, both short and long term.”
While the forum starts at 6pm and wraps up at 8pm, it will be open for people to attend and provide their feedback, ask questions or connect with services at any point throughout the evening.
“It doesn’t have a specific schedule,” Mr Reid said.
“The event is designed to be flexible for working families or those who have other commitments they need to attend to on the night.”
Those unable to attend but wish to access the services, connections or just provide feedback and observations can do so via Wakefield Regional Council’s contact channels.
Event Details:
Seven Point Pork Closure Forum
* Date: Wednesday, July 2, 2025
* Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
* Location: Port Wakefield Soldiers' Memorial Hall 39 Edward Street, Port Wakefield, SA
Purpose of the Forum:
* Provide information on the Seven Point Pork closure process
* Outline available support for employees and affected families
* Allow the community to raise concerns and ask questions
* Facilitate collaboration between local leaders, service providers, and government representatives