The battle over Elon Musk’s proposed Tesla factory in Adelaide has intensified after the Marion city council overrode overwhelming community objections to approve the project’s initial stage. The decision has fueled anger among residents and activists, who are now preparing for a crucial showdown at the state government level.
The depth of public sentiment against the proposed Tesla showroom and battery recycling facility was clearly demonstrated in the submission process, where approximately 95% of nearly 1,000 entries expressed outright opposition. Many of these submissions went beyond traditional planning concerns, directly addressing “anti-Tesla and anti-Elon Musk sentiment.”
Despite this strong and widespread dissent, the Marion city council chose to prioritize the economic benefits of the development, including the creation of 100 jobs and a multi-million dollar injection into the local economy. Mayor Kris Hanna underscored this point, suggesting that blocking the project locally would merely shift Tesla’s operations elsewhere.
The focus of the protest now shifts to the state government, which will have the final say on the development. “Trees not Teslas” is determined to continue its fight, arguing that the council’s decision undermines the democratic process. This ongoing struggle in South Australia reflects a growing global trend of communities pushing back against corporate developments tied to controversial figures.