A new school and district-level sportsground are on their way to Riverlea Park, thanks to a long-term partnership between the City of Playford, Walker Corporation, and Catholic Education South Australia (CESA).
The project reflects considerable planning and collaboration between the parties, and shows what's possible when Council and the private sector work together to deliver infrastructure to support a growing community.
"This partnership is a great example of forward-thinking planning done well," Mayor Glenn Docherty said.
"We've worked closely with CESA and Walker Corporation to make this happen - because it's the right approach for a growing area like Riverlea."
The school, Xavier College Riverlea Park, will be the first to open in the suburb, and will be co-located with a district-level sportsground and community facilities, managed by Council. Council is investing in the construction of Stage 1, with $15.7 million allocated in its 2025/26 Draft Annual Business Plan and Budget.
A shared use agreement between Council and CESA will provide both students and the wider community with access to high-quality sporting facilities.
"Riverlea is already home to hundreds of families, with more people moving in every week," Mayor Docherty said. "Delivering a school and sportsground at this stage sets the community and the school up with the facilities it needs to grow well."
"We know that recreational and community infrastructure is important, and this partnership helps us deliver facilities in line with growth."
CESA Executive Director Dr Neil McGoran said Xavier College Riverlea Park would be the 120th Catholic campus in South Australia.
"Our partnership with the City of Playford and Walker Corporation provides shared access to district-level recreational and sports facilities that will benefit the whole community," Dr McGoran said.
"With 40,000 people calling Riverlea home in the future, we are honoured to be delivering the first school in this founding community."
Walker Corporation Managing Director and CEO David Gallant said: "Delivering quality education and well-designed public open spaces is a core component of Walker Corporation's masterplanned vision for Riverlea. We are pleased to partner with Catholic Education South Australia and the City of Playford to help bring this vision to life."
Construction of the school and first stage of the sportsground is set to begin later this year, with Xavier College Riverlea Park scheduled to open in January 2027.
Stage 1 of the sports and community facility will include a multi-purpose oval, soccer pitch, and supporting infrastructure - designed for shared use between the school and community. Future stages of the sporting facility will include additional ovals, courts, clubrooms, and a community centre. These will be delivered over time in line with population growth and community need.
Xavier College Riverlea Park will cater for students from Reception to Year 6 initially, expanding over time to offer a full Reception to Year 12 pathway.
