Six regional plans providing a clear pathway for strategic growth in regions across South Australia have been released by the Malinauskas Labor Government.
The regional plans set out strategic priorities for sustainable growth in housing, land use and infrastructure over the next 15-30 years. They outline where new housing and employment areas will be located, and what infrastructure is needed while exploring different growth scenarios.
The regional plans were developed following a series of investigations, workshops and forums with stakeholders including councils, key industry stakeholders, state agencies and community members.
The six regional plans are:
Kangaroo Island Regional Plan
- Population as of 2021: 5,000
- 2051 population projection: 6,700
- New homes required by 2051: 1,149
The Kangaroo Island Regional Plan identifies the land and infrastructure required to support growth in a sustainable way, balancing community aspirations and the need to protect the local environment. The plan encourages increased varied housing options within major towns to improve access to essential services while minimising impacts on productive land.
Eyre and Western Regional Plan
- Population as of 2021: 58,900
- 2051 population projection: 70,800
- New homes required by 2051: 6,194
The Eyre and Western Regional Plan aims to safeguard the region's biodiversity, marine habitats and open landscapes, while fostering economic growth in energy, mining, agriculture, and tourism. With Whyalla, Ceduna, and Port Lincoln as key employment hubs and its status as a premier tourism destination, the region will benefit from increased investment in nature-based attractions and infrastructure. Strategic land-use planning will balance growth, conservation and long-term liveability.
Far North Regional Plan
- Population as of 2021: 26,700
- 2051 population projection: 27,800
- New homes required by 2051: 720
The Far North Regional Plan prioritises preserving cultural heritage, natural resources, biodiversity, and Aboriginal sites, while supporting a wider range of housing to meet the needs of older residents, skilled workers, single-person households, seasonal workers and tourists.
Yorke Peninsula and Mid North Regional Plan
- Population as of 2021: 78,200
- 2051 population projection: 95,800
- New homes required by 2051: 11,504
The Yorke Peninsula and Mid North Regional Plan seeks to boost affordable and diverse housing beyond the current 94 per cent detached homes, addressing the needs of older residents, smaller families, temporary workers and low-income households. By encouraging varied housing and improved service access, it aims to foster an inclusive and thriving community.
Murray Mallee Regional Plan
- Population as of 2021: 73,100
- 2051 population projection: 101,300
- New homes required by 2051: 13,900
The Murray Mallee Regional Plan supports growth in the region by identifying the land, infrastructure, and housing needed for economic prosperity. It also proposes actions to boost affordable, accessible, and diverse housing close to services, catering to various household types and life stages. Expanding these opportunities is key to attracting and keeping younger workers as the workforce ages.
Limestone Coast Regional Plan
- Population as of 2021: 68,500
- 2051 population projection: 86,600
- New homes required by 2051: 8,805
The Limestone Coast Regional Plan ensures sufficient land, manages township growth, and promotes diverse, affordable housing close to health and community services. Mount Gambier and its surrounds will remain the region's main centre, housing over half the population. It also protects primary production land while supporting agribusiness and value-adding opportunities.
The release of the six country regional plans follows the last year's release of the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan that estimates that by 2050, Greater Adelaide's population is expected to grow by an additional 670,000 people. The plan identifies the location of 315,000 new homes for South Australians as well as space to create 254,000 additional jobs.
Key features of the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan include the creation of a new Northern Park Lands as well as increased protection for 88 per cent of Greater Adelaide's food production areas.
All regional plans are available to view at https://plan.sa.gov.au/resources/planning/regional_plans
As put by Nick Champion
Stronger regions means a stronger South Australia.
South Australians in regional communities can be assured that the future of where they live is being backed by a Government with a plan for sensible growth.
These plans will ensure every region in South Australia has a voice in shaping the future of their communities.
I am grateful to the local councils and community members that have shaped these plans, ensuring what is in the plans reflects what each region needs.
