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The South Australian government has announced that a large parcel of land will be rezoned to support the state’s defence manufacturing capabilities.
The defence and aerospace precinct is proposed to be established immediately north of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Edinburgh Air Base.
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The Defence and Aerospace Precinct Code Amendment will investigate rezoning 400 hectares of land at Penfield from the Rural Horticulture Zone to the Employment Zone and Strategic Employment Zone.
“This proposed rezoning is an opportunity to transform underutilised land into a new defence precinct that would create jobs and expand SA’s growing defence industry,” said South Australia’s Housing and Urban Development Minister Nick Champion.
“It is a unique opportunity to take advantage of the area’s strategic location next to RAAF Base Edinburgh and future proof this area for more specialised jobs.
“Given the area’s strategic location, it’s important thorough investigations are undertaken to determine the infrastructure investments required and ensure acceptable interfaces with neighbouring sites.”
The proposed new zoning will facilitate a wide range of employment generating activities including industrial, logistical, warehousing, storage, research, training, and compatible business activities as well as encouraging more defence industries to be based in SA and generate significant employment opportunities in the area.
“South Australia’s defence industry is growing, and this proposed rezoning presents an opportunity to further reinforce our reputation as the defence state,” Treasurer of South Australia Stephen Mullighan said.
“A new defence and aerospace precinct next to the RAAF base will build upon the existing operations in the area and encourage further investment in our state.”
The proposal will prioritise development for defence and aerospace-related industries and build upon the existing industry already based in the area at Edinburgh Parks, as well as the neighbouring $200 million Deep Maintenance and Modification Facility which is currently under construction.
Proposed by the City of Playford, the code amendment has been initiated. A number of investigations will be undertaken as part of developing the detailed rezoning proposal, including traffic study, infrastructure requirements, concept plan and interface management with nearby residents.
“Council recognised the potential of this site and took the lead in progressing this Code Amendment. It is an opportunity that supports not just Playford, but national and state priorities to grow the defence sector,” City of Playford Mayor Glenn Docherty said.
“This land is ideally positioned to support the development of a secure and integrated defence precinct alongside RAAF Base Edinburgh and the existing industry cluster. It will help attract new investment, enhance South Australia’s defence sector, and contribute to our nation’s sovereign capability.
“For Playford, it represents an opportunity to secure long-term economic growth, expand the existing local defence industry, and create the jobs needed to support our rapidly growing population. Council is proud to be driving an initiative that delivers local benefits while supporting broader state and national outcomes.”
Following these detailed investigations, community consultation and targeted stakeholder engagement will occur.
