Haslam Commitment to Major Economic Zone Status for Eyre Peninsula
MEDIA RELEASE
Date: 23 February 2026
Independent candidate for Flinders, Craig Haslam, reaffirmed his commitment to securing the long-term future of the Eyre Peninsula by pushing for the region to be formally recognised as a Major Economic Zone.
Mr Haslam said the declaration would unlock critical infrastructure investment and position the Eyre Peninsula as a powerhouse for sustainable growth in South Australia.
“Our region has enormous potential,” Mr Haslam said. “From agriculture, fishing and aquaculture to tourism and renewable energy, the Eyre Peninsula is ready to grow. But we cannot realise that potential without the infrastructure to support it.”
Mr Haslam said decades of underinvestment in water, power, roads, rail, ports and air services have constrained growth across the region. He identified power and water security as immediate priorities to ensure the Eyre Peninsula can attract new investment and support local industry.
“While successive governments have focused heavily on growth in Adelaide, the Eyre Peninsula has continued to do its share to support South Australia’s prosperity — without seeing a fair return,” he said.
Declaring the Eyre Peninsula a Major Economic Zone would provide a coordinated framework to align government policy, attract both public and private investment, and deliver the essential infrastructure required for long-term development.
“This is about backing our region’s potential,” Mr Haslam said. “It’s about ensuring economic growth strengthens local communities, protects our natural landscapes and creates secure, long-term local jobs.”
Mr Haslam said a strong, long-term focus on infrastructure is key to investment and regional growth.
