The draft Kangaroo Island Regional Plan (KIRP) has been released by the State Planning Commission for a 12-week public consultation period.To support its launch, Planning and Land Use Services has developed Australia’s first 100 per cent digital, dynamic and interactive Regional Planning Portal.The KIRP is the first of seven new regional plans for South Australia, to be developed in the innovative platform. It allows for real-time updates to ensure the plan remains contemporary and provides users easy access to the regional plans via the accessible interface.The KIRP is a 30-year roadmap for Kangaroo Island, aimed at fostering a resilient, prosperous, healthy, and connected future for the island’s communities. Climate change mitigation, convenient transport infrastructure, and diverse housing options will be integral to achieving this vision of sustainable growth and community well-being.The KIRP addresses key priorities for the region, such as preserving the island's natural environment, promoting economic prosperity and ensuring there is enough housing.It maps out the state government’s long-term vision for sustainable growth across the state and plays a significant role in identifying appropriate land for future housing, employment, commercial uses, and the necessary supporting infrastructure.Key highlights in the Kangaroo Island Regional Plan include:Population growth projections estimate 6,876 residents by 2054. (4,894 residents in 2021 census).The need to address housing challenges, including seasonal worker accommodation.Emphasis on sustainable growth that is resilient to natural disasters such as bushfires, and the protection of primary production land by focusing residential development in the established towns of Kingscote, Parndana, American River and Emu Bay.Kingscote, Penneshaw and American River are identified as key employment and service centres.Climate change considerations are integrated into planning to safeguard against natural hazards.Infrastructure improvements across the island, including transport connectivity, are prioritised.All feedback received during the 12-week consultation period will be reviewed and considered for inclusion in the draft KIRP, before final amendments are made ahead of the plan’s formal endorsement and adoption in late 2024.To view the regional planning portal and for more information about the Kangaroo Island Regional Plan, visit the website. Craig Holden, State Planning Commission Chair, says Kangaroo Island communities are relying on the Commission tom make responsible, equitable and economically sound planning decisions while recognising and addressing the many challenges they and their Island face.“The Kangaroo Island Regional Plan acknowledges the strong sense of identity the Island has a whole and within each of its thriving towns.“The Commission’s work on developing these regional plans is aimed at future-proofing our state’s wonderful regions, to be sustainable and connected communities, resilient to the impacts of climate change and other challenges.“Underpinning our regional plans is our desire to align integrated planning, housing diversity, economic growth, environmental stewardship, and improved infrastructure to ensure a prosperous future for all.”He has thanked those who played a key role in developing the draft Regional Plan and encourages the Kangaroo Island community to share feedback and ensure they have their say.