In its submission on the Port Kembla rezoning, the Property Council has called for a dual-track approach that safeguards the steelworks while unlocking 200 hectares of underutilised land for new industries in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, logistics and technology.
Property Council Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Director Matthew Wales said the masterplan is now at the point where commitment to delivery is critical.
"We welcomed the announcement earlier this month - today our message is clear: it's time to move from vision to action," Mr Wales said.
"Infrastructure certainty, industrial land supply and clear staging are what will give investors, educators and local businesses the confidence to put down roots in Port Kembla."
The submission highlights the need for:
- A staged infrastructure delivery plan tied to precinct activation.
- Freight and utility upgrades to support both existing industries and new sectors.
- Fast-tracked implementation of the Industrial Lands Action Plan with the Illawarra prioritised as a key growth corridor.
Mr Wales said the Illawarra was uniquely placed to help ease industrial land pressures across NSW.
"With vacancy rates near zero in Greater Sydney and rising costs forcing businesses interstate, Port Kembla offers the scale and connectivity needed to keep investment and jobs in the state.
"This has the potential to be the largest industrial land reactivation in the world - but it won't happen by accident.
"With Government working with industry on planning, infrastructure and workforce, Port Kembla can be the engine room of NSW's clean energy future, creating up to 30,000 new jobs.
Mr Wales said the region must grab the opportunity to work with education providers, training organisations, and local communities to build a skilled workforce.
With the right partnerships, the precinct can anchor innovation hubs, attract research investment, and open up new career pathways for young people across the Illawarra.
"Our community is growing fast - and while we must build more homes, we also need to match that with places to work. Port Kembla can be where the Illawarra's next generation of careers are built."
