Council Welcomes Innovative Housing Investment Opportunity

Published 11th April 2025

Port Pirie Regional Council is excited to share a new housing investment opportunity unveiled by Renewal SA’s Office for Regional Housing. This initiative seeks to offer long-term, secure rental agreements with guaranteed returns and up to $1 million in state government capital.

Developers are invited to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to build up to 10 rental homes in Port Pirie for key workers in healthcare, law enforcement and education. The homes will be leased back to the state government with a minimum 10-year lease commitment, maintenance agreements and make-good provisions.

Matt Hunt, Director of the Office for Regional Housing, highlighted the initiative's goal to build confidence in regional housing investment while offering stable returns. Renewal SA is also contributing up to $1 million for civil infrastructure if developers create additional builder-ready serviced allotments.

Port Pirie was chosen due to its high demand for government workforce housing and strategic proximity to mining activities. Despite a diverse industry base, local businesses face constraints due to low population growth and housing supply shortages.

Mayor Leon Stephens expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It's fantastic to see the State Government supporting additional housing opportunities in Port Pirie. This initiative will not only address our critical housing shortage but also free up other rental properties in the market.”

“The long-term, secure rental agreements and significant government investment will attract developers and ensure key workers have quality homes. This project is a major step towards enhancing our community's growth and stability," Mayor Stephens added.

“Thank you to all involved in making this happen, including SAPOL Superintendent Mark Syrus, Yorke and Northern Local Health Network CEO Roger Kirchner, RDA Yorke and Mid North, Council’s Elected Members, and Renewal SA – this will be a game changer for our professionals posted in Port Pirie,” said Mayor Stephens.

Submissions are invited via email by 5:00pm (ACST), Thursday 22 May 2025 to OfficeRegionalHousing@sa.gov.au.

For more information, please visit Renewal SA’s website or view the EOI documents.

aerial photo of Port Pirie with Renewal SA logo