Forecasters are predicting the Limestone Coast region is set to increase in population by 18,000 in the next three decades, according to the State Government.
With this in mind, residents are being invited to shape the future of the region, with public consultation now open on both the Limestone Coast Regional Plan and the Murray Mallee Regional Plan.
Minister for Housing and Urban Development Nick Champion said the plans will play an important role in guiding sustainable growth by identifying land use and long-term infrastructure over a 15 to 30-year period.
“They outline where new housing and employment areas will be located, how services will be delivered, and what infrastructure is needed while exploring different growth scenarios,” he said.
“Planning for this growth and change is essential to ensure the regions remain sustainable and prosperous.”
The Limestone Coast Regional Plan key priorities include preparing for a population increase of 18,000 over the next 30 years driven by migration and evolving industries.
The plan is also being developed to provide diverse housing within township boundaries to support growth, offering a wide range of house styles and easy access to services.
It will look to safeguard vital industries such as fishing, forestry and agriculture through strategic land-use planning, reducing conflicts with residential development and primary production areas.
Measure will include boosting tourism by improving transport options to enhance accessibility and visitor experiences, along with using climate projections and risk assessments to prepare for the impacts of extreme weather events such as bushfires, floods and coastal erosion.
Minister Champion said the South East was known for pristine landscapes and rich biodiversity, and was underpinned by key industries such as tourism, forestry and agriculture.
“These two new country regional plans aim to grow these important economies and populations, protect precious environmental and cultural assets, and create new opportunities for sustainable development,” he said.
“Through coordinated land-use planning and integrated infrastructure delivery, these plans aim to ensure liveability, sustainability, and economic viability for decades to come.
State Planning Commission Chair Craig Holden said the commission was pleased to reach this significant milestone with the engagement launch of the final two regional plans.
“Both the Limestone Coast Regional Plan and the Murray Mallee Regional Plan provide a blueprint for sustainable growth, addressing the future needs of communities, businesses, and ecosystems, across these vast areas,” he said.
“These plans are a collaborative roadmap, and I encourage input from local councils, state agencies, environmental groups, First Nations communities, residents, and developers, to ensure that each plan reflects local priorities and set a clear vision for the future.”
The Plans can be viewed here at regional.plan.sa.gov.au/
The public can share their feedback here:
• Limestone Coast Regional Plan: yoursay.sa.gov.au/limestone-coast-regional-plan
• Murray Mallee Regional Plan: yoursay.sa.gov.au/murray-mallee-regional-plan
Consultation closes at on June 17, with the plans to be finalised late 2025.
