The South Australian Division of the Property Council has welcomed the appointment of Andrew McKeegan as South Australia's new Coordinator-General but warns that much more work is urgently needed to accelerate the delivery of enabling infrastructure to unlock employment land supply and housing projects.
South Australian Executive Director of the Property Council, Bruce Djite, said Mr McKeegan's experience across planning, transport and infrastructure makes him well-suited to the role, but the task ahead is significant and the clock is ticking.
"Andrew's appointment is a positive step forward. He brings a wealth of experience and credibility to the table, but we cannot underestimate the challenges ahead," Mr Djite said.
"South Australia has less than two years of development-ready employment land supply and has signed up to the National Housing Accord, which commits the state to delivering 16,500 home per year. However, projects are still being held back by the rollout of enabling infrastructure including, water, sewer, energy and transport links."
The new role of Coordinator-General is designed to streamline approvals and cut through cross-agency blockages on projects of state and national significance, including housing, AUKUS and the transition to a net-zero economy.
Mr Djite said the Property Council and industry look forward to working with Mr McKeegan to ensure these reforms translate into tangible economic outcomes for all South Australians.
"This role has the potential to be a game-changer for South Australia, but success will be judged by delivery on the ground, not announcements," Mr Djite said.
"The industry is committed to working collaboratively with Andrew and the Government to cut through the blockages and accelerate the delivery of the built form required for South Australia to grow in a sustainable and competitive way."
