Land west of Murray Bridge has been rezoned by the South Australian Government, a move expected to unlock hundreds of new homes in one of the state’s key housing growth areas.
Planning Minister Nick Champion has adopted the Murray Bridge Residential Growth Areas Code Amendment, which changes around 97.5 hectares of rural and underused agricultural land to allow for low to medium density housing.
The rezoning is forecast to support up to 900 new homes and forms part of the Malinauskas Government’s broader housing agenda under the Premier’s Housing Roadmap.
Murray Bridge has long been flagged as an area with strong growth potential. The Greater Adelaide Regional Plan points to the region’s capacity for large-scale residential development, employment opportunities and its recreational appeal along the Murray River.
Alongside the new zoning, the amendment introduces an Affordable Housing Overlay. Under this rule, developments creating more than 20 allotments will need to ensure at least 15 per cent of homes are offered as affordable sale.
The land will transition into a Suburban Neighbourhood Zone, a change intended to ensure future development fits with the established character of the area rather than reshaping it too abruptly.
Three concept plans have also been included to guide how the western growth areas should evolve. Planning rules will require that housing development cannot begin until essential infrastructure planning is completed, aiming to avoid the common problem of homes being built ahead of roads, services and utilities.
This work will be managed through the Murray Bridge Basic Infrastructure Scheme, which the government says will ensure future residents are properly serviced and that infrastructure costs are shared fairly.
Minister Champion described Murray Bridge as a major opportunity for housing growth, while stressing the importance of careful preparation.
“It’s important we get it right from the start, and that housing growth is backed by thoughtful planning,” he said.
Local Labor candidate Simone Bailey said the rezoning was part of preparing the city for its next stage of development, arguing it would support jobs, affordability and infrastructure.
Mayor Wayne Thorley of the District Council of Murray Bridge welcomed the decision, saying council had been working towards the western areas rezoning for some time.
“This initiative opens the door to more affordable housing options and strengthens our partnership with the State Government,” he said, noting Murray Bridge’s lifestyle appeal and proximity to Adelaide.
The announcement also comes alongside broader funding commitments outlined by the government for the Murray Bridge region, including proposed investment in public transport, health services, education and policing infrastructure.
The government says the rezoning is designed to increase housing supply while ensuring growth is coordinated with the services and facilities that future residents will rely on.
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