An artist’s impression of BlueScope’s proposed multi-industrial precinct. Photos: BlueScope.
The highly anticipated major land transformation at Port Kembla can finally begin, with the rezoning of 200 hectares of BlueScope’s non-operational land now finalised.
The key milestone paves the way for one of the region’s most significant redevelopment projects in decades, opening the site to new industries and long-term economic expansion.
The Port Kembla Land Transformation Precinct — an area roughly the size of Sydney’s CBD — is expected to evolve over the next 20 to 30 years into a hub for advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, education, logistics, data, and creative and sustainability-focused industries.
Planning documents indicate the precinct could eventually support up to 20,000 jobs, in addition to the more than 10,000 people currently employed through BlueScope’s steelworks operations.
The finalisation of rezoning follows a fast-tracked State Assessed Rezoning Proposal process, seven months after the proposal was brought under state assessment in April.
The final plan received strong community support during public exhibition, with 90 per cent of 209 submissions backing the transformation and highlighting the potential benefits for jobs, investment and improved transport links.
While the redevelopment will introduce new industries to the area, existing steelmaking and port operations will continue unaffected.
The precinct’s design leverages existing transport and infrastructure assets while gradually opening pockets of land for staged development.
Future projects within the transformation area will require individual development applications.
BlueScope’s Michael Yiend and Planning Minister Paul Scully at the site of the Port Kembla Land Transformation Project. Photo: Keeli Dyson.
Planning authorities say the scale of the project marks one of the largest planned land transitions globally, reshaping a site that has been central to Illawarra’s industrial identity for nearly a century.
NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the finalisation represented a significant moment for the region.
“This is both one of the world’s largest land transformations and the biggest change to Illawarra’s industrial landscape since steelmaking commenced nearly 100 years ago,” he said.
“This project will deliver major opportunities for not only Wollongong but the entire state and it’s clear the community recognise the importance as their strong support has helped it move through the planning system in just seven months.”
BlueScope Head of Property Development Michael Yiend described the rezoning as a “game-changer” for the region, unlocking new investment and development opportunities.
“We were overwhelmed to have received over 200 supportive submissions for the project while on public exhibition, with only four opposing,” he said. “It is rare to have this level of alignment and support across industry, government, business and the community.”
Development proposals for individual sites within the precinct are expected to be lodged progressively as planning and commercial arrangements advance.
Further information about the precinct and planning process is available through NSW Planning.
