The South Australian Government has announced a major housing development project at the former Port Stanvac oil refinery site, now set for a comprehensive transformation. This initiative, led by Premier Peter Malinauskas in collaboration with MAB and ExxonMobil, will introduce up to 3600 new homes along with substantial public and recreational spaces, aiming to revitalise this substantial section of Adelaide’s coastline.
Located on a 230-hectare site, the project is ambitious, integrating housing with 40 hectares of preserved coastal land, public beach access, and a series of community-focused amenities. The development plan includes sporting fields and a mixed-use precinct featuring shopping, business, entertainment, and recreation facilities.
ExxonMobil halted its refinery operations in 2003 and has now agreed to sell the land to MAB, enabling the site’s redevelopment. This decision follows a meeting in May between the Premier and ExxonMobil in Washington DC, where the future of the Port Stanvac site was a key topic of discussion.
In alignment with Adelaide’s broader urban development strategy, the Port Stanvac site is highlighted in the draft Greater Adelaide Regional Plan as a prime opportunity for creating a mix of residential areas, innovation industries, and public spaces. Its strategic location offers critical links to transport infrastructure and potential for renewable energy and industry connections, making it an ideal candidate for development.
The planning stage will involve the State Government, MAB, and the Onkaparinga Council, focusing on creating a master plan that caters to diverse housing needs while incorporating commercial and industrial elements. The plan will also address environmental concerns, traffic management, and the integration of the site with neighbouring industrial areas.
Public consultations are set for 2025 to discuss proposed rezoning changes, ensuring community input into the final developmental outcomes. Additional community consultations will occur as specific development applications are submitted.
Premier Malinauskas said “Port Stanvac is one of the most naturally beautiful parts of Adelaide and is a once in a generation housing project.” He described the development as a significant benefit, delivering not only homes but also enhanced amenities and access to one of Adelaide’s scenic coastal pathways.
Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Nick Champion, also commented on the project’s significance for addressing housing shortages: “This will unlock much needed housing supply in the southern suburbs.”
Local Member for Reynell, Katrine Hildyard, supported the project, saying “For many years, the lovely people of O’Sullivan Beach and surrounding areas have been advocating for access to this stunning beach and for more green space and sporting fields to be opened. “I have been proud to support our local community in this and really proud that our Malinauskas Labor Government is listening and also opening up more housing opportunities for future generations.
“So many people in our community talk about their desire for their kids and grandkids to be able to access a home – this is a crucial step forward in ensuring that they can.”
MAB Managing Director, Andrew Buxton, shared “We have an incredible opportunity to breathe new life into the region and open up a unique part of Adelaide’s coastline to the community. “MAB is committed to working with all stakeholders to plan and deliver a contemporary mixed-use masterplanned precinct that creates new lifestyle and employment options for the local community.”
Simon Younger, ExxonMobil Australia Chair, acknowledged the collaborative efforts in repurposing the site and looked forward to its redevelopment impact on the community. “Having entered into commercial discussions with MAB in 2023, we look forward to now finalising the sale and seeing them redevelop this site to ensure it continues to have a positive role in the Onkaparinga community.”
