The world's current largest industrial land transformation project has taken a major step forward, with a rezoning proposal released today to revitalise 200 hectares of land at BlueScope's Port Kembla site.
Now on public exhibition, the proposal outlines plans to rezone 200 hectares of underutilised land on the southern edge of the Port Kembla Steelworks. This paves the way for a future-focused hub that will support up to 30,000 local jobs and drive the Illawarra's economic growth for decades to come.
The proposed precinct will rezone the existing industrial land to attract new industries across advanced manufacturing, clean and renewable energy, education, and data and logistics which will help position the Illawarra as a leader in next-generation industries.
Several historic buildings will be preserved and repurposed, maintaining the site's industrial legacy alongside its transformation into a modern and innovative precinct.
The ongoing operations of the steelworks and the port will continue uninterrupted, with existing infrastructure and transport connections at the site to support new development.
The NSW Government is fast-tracking the rezoning through a State Assessed Rezoning Proposal process, recognising its strategic importance for the region and the state.
A Cabinet-endorsed Working Group, led by the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Member for Wollongong, Paul Scully MP, is overseeing the strategic coordination of the project.
The group brings together representatives from NSW Government agencies, Wollongong City Council and BlueScope.
Community members and stakeholders are invited to provide feedback on the proposal, which includes a draft master plan, technical studies, and an Explanation of Intended Effect (EIE). Submissions are open until Thursday, 5 October 2025.
For more information visit www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/port-kembla
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:
"This site has the potential to make the most significant difference to the Illawarra's industrial landscape since steelmaking commenced nearly 100 years ago and the biggest change to our local economy since the University of Wollongong became an independent institution 50 years ago.
"This site is about the same size as Monaco and has the potential to transform the local economy and create 30,000 jobs.
"The Port Kembla Steelworks has been at the heart of Wollongong for nearly a century, shaping our city, our economy and our identity.
"This transformation is about honouring the site's industrial history while building a precinct that brings new industries and new jobs to the Illawarra.
"BlueScope currently contributes around 1 per cent of NSW's Gross State Product from its Port Kembla site, the proposed masterplan could support an additional 30,000 jobs and could double this economic contribution.
"This will support thousands of new jobs in fast growing industries like advanced manufacturing, education, tech, and renewable energy that will sustain our region for generations."
BlueScope Head of Property Development Michael Yiend said:
"The public exhibition represents a significant milestone in the Port Kembla Land Transformation Project-an opportunity to unlock 200 hectares of previously heavy industrial operational land and deliver enduring benefits to the Illawarra region and beyond.
"This transformation will complement existing and future steelmaking operations while attracting emerging industries to the site, creating a multi-decade pipeline of investment, economic growth, and new local career opportunities. We are proud to work alongside the NSW Government, Wollongong City Council, and the community to realise this vision and reinforce the Illawarra's key role in Australian industry, driving sustainable growth for decades to come."
