BlueScope has released a Master Plan for 200 hectares of landholdings adjacent to the steelworks to create a next generation multi-industrial precinct with potential to create thousands of jobs in existing and emerging industries like clean energy and defence.
The Master Plan includes the potential for a new Super TAFE. A Memorandum of Understanding between TAFE NSW and BlueScope was signed in 2023, with both parties committing to explore opportunities to create a flagship training campus.
Transport for NSW will assess Five Islands Road to understand the infrastructure needed to support the plan, which BlueScope has forecast to create up to 30,000 jobs over time.
A transport plan would look at increased travel demand to the Port Kembla area and connectivity to the rest of the Illawarra.
It will consider the needs of the road network, public transport, and active transport.
Transport’s early planning is expected to be complete by the end of 2024.
Minister for Roads John Graham said:
“The NSW Government is delivering better road infrastructure and transport services to support the growth and development of the Illawarra.
“The Master Plan at Port Kembla would create a lot of employment and activity in this zone and we need to make sure that roads and transport are designed with the future in mind.”
Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park said:
“BlueScope is one of the biggest employers in the Illawarra and the redevelopment has the potential to create many more jobs and opportunities for the region.
“By getting the road and transport connections right to the site at Port Kembla we can assist in making the most of the abundant potential here.”
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said:
“The proposed redevelopment of this surplus industrial land provides an incredible opportunity for the region, and the NSW Government is working hard to support the plan as it progresses. “It’s vital for any large job-generating precinct to be well-connected to the wider area, which is why a transport plan is an important step forward.”
Member for Heathcote Maryanne Stuart said:
“The training and employment opportunities that a redeveloped Port Kembla would provide my community are important and it is pleasing to see this large commitment of $500,000 in planning for the most effective transport infrastructure.”
Member for Shellharbour Anna Watson said:
“The planned redevelopment of BlueScope comes with huge opportunities for the Shellharbour community, and I look forward to seeing how transport planning could support this vision.”
