The SA Government has announced that a large tract of greenfield land at Onkaparinga Heights, spanning 68 hectares, is set for development. This initiative will introduce up to 1,000 new homes in what is considered one of the most crucial parcels of land to enter the Adelaide southern suburbs’ market in recent times.
The project is part of a strategic continuation in the investment into Adelaide’s southern region, aligning with similar extensive residential projects already in progress at Noarlunga and Aldinga. The government has released this land for development, while a neighboring site is slated for another 1,000 homes through private sector initiatives.
A request for a single-stage proposal has been initiated by Renewal SA, seeking a development partner committed to delivering a substantial residential offering within the City of Onkaparinga. The completion of this venture is estimated to bring a market value of approximately $750 million.
Onkaparinga Heights, renamed in early 2023 after major rezoning switched 235 hectares from Rural Land to a Master Planned Neighbourhood Zone, lies 32 kilometres from Adelaide’s CBD. The area boasts proximity to vital transit nodes such as the Seaford Meadows Train Station, essential roadways including Main South Road and Piggott Range Road, and popular locales like McLaren Vale and Port Noarlunga beach.
Crucial to the development is the infrastructure, notably water services. SA Water is currently crafting a detailed design for the water networks that will serve the new development, with construction anticipated to commence in the third quarter of 2025. These efforts include collaborations with the development partner to ensure tailored water infrastructure solutions, alongside preliminary designs for wastewater handling systems.
An objective of the development is the provision of diverse community housing options, with a directed focus on including 20% affordable housing. This segment is planned for sale through the HomeSeeker SA scheme or arrangement with Community Housing Providers. Proposals that incorporate aged-care facilities and innovative residential types are favoured to meet diverse community needs.
Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Nick Champion MP, spoke about the significance of this project. “This is an important step forward toward turning a significant parcel of land into an opportunity for more South Australians to secure a place to call home,” said Champion.
“Our government’s investment and critical infrastructure upgrades, together with the right partner, will see an empty paddock turn into a vibrant new neighbourhood.”
Nat Cook MP, Member for Hurtle Vale, noted the local benefits of this development. “This project, in my neighbourhood, is a major step in easing housing pressures across South Australia. We’re making home ownership and secure rentals more accessible for local families. Affordable housing shouldn’t be out of reach and Onkaparinga Heights is helping fix that.”
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