The 2024 Regional Blueprint, released by Regional Development South Australia (RDSA), provides a detailed overview of economic trends, investment opportunities, and key priorities across South Australia’s regions.
South Australia’s Gross Regional Product (GRP) increased from $31.78 billion in 2023 to $35.89 billion in 2024. The Regional Development South Australia Regional Investment Pipeline value rose to $65.43 billion, encompassing 928 public and private sector projects. Agriculture, forestry, and fisheries contributed 23% to the state’s GRP, highlighting their vital role in the regional economy.
The report outlines important data for the Barossa, Gawler, Light, and Adelaide Plains region:
- The RDA Barossa Gawler Light Adelaide Plains (RDA BGLAP) region is experiencing significant housing and population growth with further growth forecast for the next fifteen years and beyond.
- The largest industries are manufacturing, healthcare and social assistance, and agriculture.
- Emerging growth sectors include healthcare, education and training, and professional, scientific, and technical services, with agriculture also experiencing growth.
- Population grew by 2.3%, adding 1,811 residents to reach 80,605.
- GRP increased by 4.92% to $4.048 billion in 2024, up from $3.858 billion in 2023.
- The number of businesses increased by 1.3% to 6,064, up from 5,986.
- Employment increased by 580 jobs (2.02%) to 29,311.
- The value of the project investment pipeline grew by $1.6 billion, increasing from $2.16 billion in 2023 to $3.762 billion in 2024.
- Tracked projects increased from 123 to 184, representing a 49.59% rise.
The Regional Blueprint identifies challenges for the region, including a critical shortage of rental housing, infrastructure requirements to support population growth, and the need to preserve primary industry land. Addressing these issues is essential for maintaining liveability, supporting workforce needs, and ensuring the sustainable development of the region.
The full 2024 Regional Blueprint is available at Regional Development South Australia’s website.
