The Steel Industry Protection Bill 2016 was first introduced in the NSW upper house by Greens MLC David Shoebridge almost a year ago – March 17, 2016 –  and was passed on August 25.

The bill, which calls for a minimum 90 per cent of Australian-made steel being used in publicly-funded infrastructure projects, was first read in the lower house on September 13 and is awaiting a second reading.

It is due to lapse on March 14.

Labor’s Illawarra spokesman, and Keira MP, Ryan Park is expected to introduce the bill on Thursday.

“Steel is an important industry for our region. Without it, many families will struggle to put food on the table,” Mr Park said.

“The government can no longer shy away from this important bill. If they vote against this bill they are voting against our region.”

The bill, which was initially crafted by The Greens and amended by Labor, would also see the appointment of an Illawarra-based NSW Steel Industry Advocate to ensure standards and certifications were met.

“This bill helps secure a sustainable future for steel making in the Illawarra,” Labor Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said.

“We’re proud of the steel we make at Port Kembla and we want it used in every road, bridge, school and hospital built across the state.”