The RAA has unveiled its ambitious 2026 State Election Platform aimed at addressing the projected growth in South Australia’s population and housing. Titled “Growth without gridlock,” the plan sets forth a series of initiatives tailored to refine the state’s infrastructure and enhance its liveability.
As South Australia is on track to surpass the two million population mark within the next five years, RAA has developed a strategic plan encompassing over 30 projects and recommendations to facilitate sustained growth. The proposals are designed to improve various infrastructural and service sectors across the state, ensuring smooth transitions amidst rapid population increments.
Heading the list of RAA’s strategic initiatives is the Housing Growth Transport Infrastructure Package. This extensive scheme proposes an expansion of rail services to the north and south of Adelaide, specifically extending the Gawler and Seaford lines. It suggests road expansions, including adding third lanes to Main South Road and Main North Road at specific sections and the duplication of Curtis Road. The blueprint also suggests constructing an overpass at the intersection of Port Wakefield Highway and Riverlea Boulevard, extending on-demand bus services, and adding a third lane on the South Eastern Freeway from Crafers to Verdun.
Another critical recommendation from RAA is to secure complete funding for the Adelaide Hills Freight Bypass to alleviate metropolitan traffic and divert heavy vehicles. The plan calls for significant funding to duplicate key sections of the Augusta Highway, Sturt Highway, and Dukes Highway to handle increased traffic volumes efficiently.
Addressing the state’s road maintenance backlog is also a top priority, with RAA suggesting the creation of a $1 billion fund spread over four years to manage and rectify existing deficiencies effectively.
Nick Reade, the Chief Executive Officer of RAA, shared, “South Australia’s population is climbing towards two million people, and we’re seeing an explosion of new housing to support that. That growth is great for our economy, great for jobs and great for our state – but it has to be supported by investment in infrastructure and services.
“If we don’t make that investment simultaneously, we run the risk of ending up with gridlock and compromising our state’s liveability, which has always been one of the best things about South Australia.”
The RAA platform not only looks to current needs but also aims to set a foundation for long-term sustainability. “We need to think beyond today and create a pipeline of projects ready to roll, positioning our state not just for tomorrow, but for the decades ahead.”
RAA’s road map for the future is detailed and expansive, aiming to guide South Australia towards a prosperously populated yet manageable and highly functional state. The execution of these proposals could shape the infrastructural landscape of South Australia, ensuring it remains a vibrant, accessible, and liveable state for current and future generations.
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