Tonsley an international benchmark for innovation and collaboration

The former Mitsubishi plant at Tonsley in Adelaide’s south has become a world-leading centre for innovation and collaboration, just three years into a major 20-year transformation project.

Deputy Premier John Rau and Manufacturing and Innovation Minister Kyam Maher today visited the site for the Tonsley Milestone event, aimed at presenting potential investors with an update about activity at Tonsley.

Mr Rau said Tonsley is critical to shaping South Australia’s economic future, and is quickly attracting global companies and institutions.

“Tonsley epitomises what the future of manufacturing in South Australia will look like,” he said.

“High-tech, globally-connected companies are already working closely with researchers and education and training organisations.

“The next phase of the project is underway, with the State Government working to achieve land sales and leasing arrangements that could generate $1 billion of investment during the 20-year life of the project.

“Tonsley has already attracted significant investment from TAFE SA, Flinders University, Siemens, Hills Innovation Centres – which will develop new health and medical devices – medical device company Signostics, innovative data service provider Tier5, and smart energy company ZEN Energy Systems.

“And earlier today, Mineral Resources and Energy Minister Tom Koutsantonis formally opened the Onshore Petroleum Centre of Excellence – a partnership between the state government and Santos, Senex Energy, Beach Energy and TAFE SA.

“This comes soon after the start of construction of the new $32.2 million Drill Core Reference Library at Tonsley.”

Minister Maher said there was much to look forward to in future.

“The upcoming opening of Flinders University’s new building and new retail outlets will continue to stimulate the site and attract the local community,” he said.

“Tonsley will also continue to attract new investors and an influx of students who will attend Flinders University and TAFE, bringing energy and vibrancy to the site.

“The innovative approach to the redevelopment of the former Mitsubishi site is evident as you look around at the amazing transformation that has already taken place.”

Visit the Tonsley website for more information.