Illawarra manufacturers urged to help lead NSW’s housing construction revolution
The Property Council of Australia is encouraging Illawarra manufacturers, construction businesses and innovators to seize the opportunity to help shape the future of housing delivery.
Property Council Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Director Matthew Wales made the call following the NSW Government launch of an Expression of Interest process for businesses to establish or expand large-scale Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) manufacturing facilities.
He said the Illawarra was uniquely positioned to become one of the state’s leading centres for MMC manufacturing, building on its industrial heritage, skilled workforce and growing role as a logistics and manufacturing hub.
“The Illawarra has all the ingredients needed to become a powerhouse for modern construction.
“We have a skilled industrial workforce, strong manufacturing capability, world-class transport connections and one of the state’s most important ports right on our doorstep.”
Mr Wales said Port Kembla could play a critical role in supporting the next generation of housing construction.
“Port Kembla could become a major gateway for Modern Methods of Construction, with the potential to bring components and materials through the Port, undertake manufacturing and assembly in the Illawarra, and then distribute housing products across the state,” he said.
The NSW Government’s MMC initiative is focused on attracting investment into facilities capable of manufacturing prefabricated building components and modular housing solutions for higher-density residential projects.
Mr Wales said the transition towards MMC was a significant economic and employment opportunity for the region.
“For generations, the Illawarra has built things that have helped shape NSW and modern construction could be the next chapter in that story.
“This is about more than building homes, it’s about creating skilled jobs, attracting investment, supporting local businesses and positioning the Illawarra at the heart of a rapidly growing industry.
“The Property Council has long supported Modern Methods of Construction because we know productivity gains will be critical if we’re going to meet our long-term housing targets.
“This is a genuine opportunity for the Illawarra to establish itself as a leader in modern construction and help deliver homes for our region and for communities right across NSW.”
