South Australia Unveils Bold Regional Growth Plans to Shape the Future of Housing, Infrastructure, and Sustainable Development

The Malinauskas Labor Government has unveiled six comprehensive regional plans aimed at providing a clear pathway for the sustainable growth of various regions across South Australia. These plans, which span a 15 to 30-year timeline, set out strategic priorities for housing, land use, and infrastructure development, ensuring that future growth is carefully managed while meeting the needs of local communities.

Strategic Regional Plans for Long-Term Growth

The release of the six regional plans signals a significant step toward guiding the development of South Australia’s regions. These plans were created through extensive consultations, including investigations, workshops, and forums involving a wide range of stakeholders such as local councils, industry experts, state agencies, and community members. The plans aim to balance growth with environmental sustainability, ensuring that regions can develop in a way that benefits both current and future generations.

Kangaroo Island Regional Plan: Balancing Growth and Environmental Protection

Kangaroo Island, with a population of 5,000 as of 2021, is projected to grow to 6,700 by 2051. The plan for Kangaroo Island focuses on the need for 1,149 new homes by 2051, with a primary goal of balancing sustainable growth with environmental preservation. The plan encourages diverse housing options within the island’s major towns, improving access to essential services while minimizing the impact on productive land. Efforts are also focused on maintaining the unique character of the island’s natural environment.

Eyre and Western Regional Plan: Fostering Economic Growth and Environmental Conservation

Eyre and Western, home to 58,900 residents as of 2021, is projected to see its population grow to 70,800 by 2051. With a need for 6,194 new homes, this region’s plan focuses on supporting the growth of key sectors such as energy, mining, agriculture, and tourism. The region is home to key employment hubs like Whyalla, Ceduna, and Port Lincoln, and the plan outlines strategies to foster economic growth while safeguarding biodiversity and marine habitats. The integration of nature-based tourism opportunities and strategic land-use planning will drive long-term liveability and conservation.

Far North Regional Plan: Preserving Heritage While Supporting Growth

The Far North region, with a population of 26,700 in 2021, is expected to grow modestly to 27,800 by 2051. The region will require 720 new homes by 2051. The Far North Regional Plan places a strong emphasis on preserving cultural heritage, natural resources, and biodiversity, while supporting diverse housing options. Special attention is given to the needs of older residents, skilled workers, seasonal workers, tourists, and single-person households, reflecting the varied demographic needs of the region.

Yorke Peninsula and Mid North Regional Plan: Promoting Affordable Housing

Yorke Peninsula and the Mid North, with a population of 78,200 in 2021, are projected to grow to 95,800 by 2051. This area will require 11,504 new homes by 2051. The plan for this region focuses on addressing the need for more affordable and varied housing options, moving beyond the current 94% of detached homes. This initiative aims to meet the housing needs of smaller families, low-income households, older residents, and temporary workers. A greater focus on affordable housing and improved service access is key to fostering a thriving and inclusive community.

Murray Mallee Regional Plan: Enhancing Housing Accessibility and Economic Prosperity

Murray Mallee, with a population of 73,100 in 2021, is expected to grow significantly to 101,300 by 2051. The region will require 13,900 new homes by 2051. The Murray Mallee Regional Plan outlines strategies to identify the land, infrastructure, and housing needed to support economic prosperity in the area. Efforts to boost affordable and diverse housing close to services are central to the plan, which also aims to attract and retain younger workers to the region. This plan also focuses on creating opportunities for various household types and life stages.

Limestone Coast Regional Plan: Protecting Primary Production While Promoting Growth

The Limestone Coast region, home to 68,500 residents as of 2021, is projected to see its population grow to 86,600 by 2051. With 8,805 new homes required by 2051, the Limestone Coast Regional Plan seeks to manage township growth and promote diverse, affordable housing options close to essential services such as health and community services. Mount Gambier will remain the region’s main hub, housing more than half of the population. The plan also emphasizes the importance of protecting primary production land while supporting agribusiness and value-adding opportunities to boost the region’s economy.

Greater Adelaide Regional Plan: Setting the Foundation for Future Growth

In addition to the six regional plans, the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan has also been released, projecting that by 2050, Greater Adelaide’s population will grow by an additional 670,000 people. This plan outlines the creation of 315,000 new homes and space for 254,000 additional jobs. The Greater Adelaide Regional Plan includes key features such as the establishment of a new Northern Park Lands and the protection of 88% of the food production areas in Greater Adelaide. This plan is designed to ensure sustainable growth in the metropolitan area while accommodating an increasing population and demand for infrastructure.

Shaping the Future of South Australia’s Regions

These regional plans represent a long-term vision for sustainable growth, addressing both current needs and future challenges. The Malinauskas Labor Government has emphasized that these plans are integral to shaping the future of South Australia’s regions, ensuring that they have the necessary resources, infrastructure, and housing options to accommodate projected population growth.

Minister for Regional Development, Nick Champion, has expressed his gratitude to the local councils and community members whose input shaped these plans. His statement underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that every region in South Australia has a voice in shaping its future.

Conclusion

South Australia’s regional plans are a testament to the state’s commitment to responsible, sustainable development. By addressing housing needs, infrastructure requirements, and environmental considerations, these plans aim to create thriving, vibrant communities across the state. As each region prepares for the growth that lies ahead, these strategic documents will serve as a roadmap for development over the next several decades, ensuring that South Australia’s regions remain strong and resilient in the face of change.

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