The Murray Mallee is on track for significant population growth over the coming decades, with new state government projections pointing to a much larger and more diverse regional community by mid-century.
Under the Murray Mallee Regional Plan, the region’s population is forecast to rise from 73,100 at the 2021 Census to 101,300 by 2051. To support that growth, almost 13,900 new homes would need to be built across the region over the next 25 years.
The plan, released by the State Labor Government, maps out where future housing, jobs and infrastructure could be located over the next 15 to 30 years. It places a strong emphasis on increasing affordable, accessible and diverse housing close to services, particularly as the region’s workforce ages and household sizes continue to change.
Murray Bridge is expected to lead that growth, with projections suggesting its population could reach around 35,000 within the next 15 years, making it the largest city in regional South Australia. Mannum and Tailem Bend are also forecast to grow, supported by job creation in tourism, renewable energy, agriculture and transport.
Planning Minister Nick Champion says the regional plans are designed to give communities confidence about the future.
“South Australians in regional communities can be assured that the future of where they live is being backed by a government with a plan for sensible growth,” he said.
“I am grateful to the local councils and community members that have shaped these plans, ensuring what is in the plans reflects what each region needs.”
The Murray Mallee Regional Plan also identifies existing capacity for housing in many towns, while acknowledging the need for higher-density options such as units and smaller homes to better meet local demand.
Further work is scheduled over the next five years, including planning for transport, water security, social infrastructure and long-term housing strategies across the region.
The full Murray Mallee Regional Plan is available on the PlanSA website.
