The Premier launched the update of South Australia’s Strategic Plan on 24 January 2007.

The first plan was launched in March 2004. It contained 84 targets, most of which had a 10-year timeframe for achievement. A comprehensive community engagement program was undertaken for much of 2006 under the leadership of an Update Team appointed by the Premier. Planning days and regional forums were conducted in regional centres across the state by staff of the Office of Executive Committee of Cabinet and the Community Connection team. The process culminated in a Community Engagement report, with a number of recommendations for specific changes to targets. Many of those suggestions are reflected in the updated plan.

Targets in some significant new areas have been added. These include early childhood, ensuring a sustainable water supply, multiculturalism, cultural engagement, employment participation, work / life balance and venture capital investment. The updated plan also gives increased prominence to Aboriginal people. This reflects the unequivocal call from the South Australian community to address Aboriginal disadvantage in all areas of life. It also reflects the positive contribution that the Aboriginal community makes to South Australia by including new targets for attaining sustainability and fostering creativity.

Objective 1 - Growing Prosperity

South Australians want a dynamic economy that is competitive, resilient and diverse. The state’s prosperity should benefit all citizens. Our growth will be managed in an environmentally sustainable way. Investors will be drawn to South Australia because of the quality of our workforce, the vitality of our communities, the efficiency of our government, and our reputation for innovation.

Objective 2 - Improving Wellbeing

South Australians should enjoy a good quality of life at every stage of life. Our children should be able to grow up in a safe environment, to acquire knowledge and be equipped to make the right choices. As we mature, we need to stay connected to the community and to the environment, even as our roles change and priorities shift. We need to be in charge of our lives and not unreasonably constrained in our options.

Objective 3 - Attaining Sustainability

South Australians value the natural beauty of our state. We are concerned about the depletion of natural resources and want to minimise the impact of human activity on the environment. Our legacy must be a thriving and well-cared-for environment. The challenge of sustainable development requires the focus, commitment and ingenuity of all South Australians.

Objective 4 - Fostering Creativity and Innovation

South Australia has a reputation for innovation in science and in the arts. We understand that our prosperity depends on the imagination, courage, talent and energy of our citizens. We want to reaffirm South Australia as a place that thrives on creativity, knowledge and imaginative thinking. This capacity to do things differently will determine whether we can achieve all our goals for the state’s future.

Objective 5 - Building Communities

Democratic practices – founded on principles of free expression, equity and tolerance – are the foundation of a well-functioning society and a healthy economy. Our citizens aspire to be well-informed and engaged in decision-making. We value community cohesion and inclusion, but resist insularity. Our regional populations and our migrant communities give us diversity; they enrich and invigorate the state.

Objective 6 - Expanding Opportunity

Placing a value on knowledge is fundamental to securing a successful, cohesive and vibrant society. Literacy is crucial from the early years. Skills for living and working become vital in adult life. All South Australians must have the opportunity to reach their potential, and to continue to learn and develop throughout their lives. Giving a helping hand to those in need is a central tenet. An educated and inspired community, actively participating in the work, life and health of South Australia, is our best legacy for the future.