South Australia’s growing defence industry could be significantly bolstered with the State Government investigating rezoning a huge parcel of land to support the state’s manufacturing and defence capabilities.

A defence and aerospace precinct is proposed to be established immediately north of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Edinburgh Air Base, to encourage more defence industries to be based in SA and generate significant employment opportunities in the area.

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.

The proposed new zoning will facilitate a wide range of employment generating activities including industrial, logistical, warehousing, storage, research, training, and compatible business activities.

It 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.

Following these detailed investigations, community consultation and targeted stakeholder engagement will occur.