The Minns Labor Government has enabled one of the world's largest land transformation projects to get underway finalising the rezoning of BlueScope's Port Kembla site to pave the way for a new high-tech precinct.
The Port Kembla Land Transformation Precinct, which matches the size of Sydney's CBD, has been rezoned to deliver a future-focused hub that will support up to 20,000 jobs on top of the more than 10,000 jobs supported by the steelworks, and will help to drive Wollongong's economic growth for decades to come.
This ambitious transformation began with the state's first Cabinet-endorsed Working Group and has been finalised in just 7 months since being called in as a state-assessed rezoning in April.
The 200-hectare precinct will attract new industries across advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, sustainability-focused technology, education, creative sectors, data and logistics which will help position the Illawarra as a leader in next-generation industry.
The rezoning received an overwhelming positive response when put on public exhibition with 90% of the 209 submissions providing positive comments about the benefits of the project, including increased economic growth, new jobs, and improved public transport links.
The ongoing operations of the steelworks and the port will continue uninterrupted, with existing infrastructure and transport connections at the site to be leveraged to support new development.
The precinct will be developed in stages over the next 20 to 30 years. Development applications will be lodged for individual sites as these are progressed.
The Minns Labor Government fast-tracked the rezoning through a State Assessed Rezoning Proposal process, recognising its strategic importance for the region and the state.
To find out more, visit: NSW Planning.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:
"This is both one of the world's largest land transformation and the biggest change to Illawarra's industrial landscape since steelmaking commenced nearly 100 years ago.
"The finalisation of the rezoning enables the precinct to become a hub of innovation bringing up to 20 000 new jobs, new industries and opportunities to Wollongong, shaping our economy for the coming decades.
"This project will deliver major opportunities for not only Wollongong but the entire state and it's clear the community recognise the importance as their strong community support has helped it move through the planning system in just 7 months."
BlueScope Head of Property Development Michael Yiend said:
"The rezoning of Port Kembla's non-operational land is a game-changer for the Illawarra, unlocking new possibilities for investment and development.
"We would like to thank Minister Scully and the NSW Government for supporting this accelerated pathway to rezoning. The community's positive feedback has played a vital role in shaping the outcome, and we express our appreciation to the community for their support.
"We were overwhelmed to have received over 200 supportive submissions for the project while on public exhibition, with only 4 opposing. It is rare to have this level of alignment and support across industry, government, business and the community."
