South Australia’s Minister for Planning has granted approval for IHG Hotels and Resorts to bring its luxury InterContinental brand to the region’s celebrated wine country through a partnership with Strategic Alliance.

The 150-key InterContinental Barossa Resort and Spa has been previously slated to open in 2028, and will be the first international-branded luxury hotel in South Australia’s wine region.

Once operating, the hotel, which will also include a restaurant and function facilities, is anticipated to create $70 – $100 million in annual economic benefits to the Barossa, revealed in a statement from the South Australian government.

The proposal was declared a Major Project last year and classified under the most stringent level of assessment within the South Australian planning system. 

“This approval has been earned through the most stringent assessment process available under South Australia’s planning system,” South Australia Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Nick Champion said.

“Community voices were heard, key issues were carefully examined and independent expert advice was considered every step of the way.”

“This is the right outcome for the Barossa and South Australia,” Champion said, calling the development a “vote of confidence in South Australia”, with economic benefits expected to “flow through the Barossa for generations to come”.

The project is also expected to boost tourism to the region.  

“The InterContinental Barossa Resort and Spa would be an exciting addition to our state’s accommodation sector and help connect the Barossa with the brand’s global customer base,” South Australia Minister for Tourism, Emily Bourke MLC.

“This is another example of the growing confidence in South Australia as not only a global destination of choice but as an attractive place to invest and do business.”

“We are experiencing record growth in the accommodation sector, supported by our investment in major events and strong tourism offerings.”

Developers, Strategic Alliance Directors, George Economou and David Cook said today’s announcement now allows the project to be able to progress to the next stage of development. 

“Our team is committed to delivering a high‑quality hotel that contributes to South Australia’s tourism offering and supports local jobs,” the directors stated.

“We are also grateful for the constructive engagement with various state government and regional agencies throughout the planning pathway and take this opportunity to thank them, our project team and everyone we have engaged with on this journey.”