Director Strategic Planning
Department for Housing and Urban Development
Job reference:
Location: 5000 - ADELAIDE
Job status: Long Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone
SAES 1: Executive Appointment.
Make a real impact. Shape South Australia's housing future.
At the heart of our department is a clear and urgent mission: delivering homes and housing options for South Australians. In the face of a national housing shortfall, we're not sitting back - we are stepping up. We're purposefully driving forward and fast‑tracking the development of diverse and sustainable housing solutions. From policy to housing infrastructure to urban planning, our work is focused on creating vibrant, liveable communities that offer more than just a roof – they offer stability, security and opportunity.
This is meaningful work. It's complex, fast paced, and deeply rewarding. You'll be part of a team that's influencing real change – solving critical challenges, shaping policy and delivering outcomes that matter.
The Role
The primary purpose of the Director Strategic Planning is to provide expert advice to the Minister for Planning, the State Planning Commission and executive leadership team on driving a contemporary approach to statutory planning policy within South Australia. The role is responsible for maintaining and enhancing the integrity of the Planning and Design Code (Code), including oversight of state significant Code Amendments. The role will be required to lead the ongoing evolution of the Greater Adelaide Region Plan and Country Regional Plans and work with local government and state agencies on long‑term land‑use planning actions and investigations. This includes partnering with local government on the development and implementation of local housing strategies.
Responsibilities
* Lead the implementation and continuous improvement of Regional Plans including the online regional planning platform.
* Directly assist, support and advise the Minister and Executive Leadership team on all planning and development matters.
* Lead and advance Agency and Whole of Government priorities in support of State Strategic Initiatives.
* Lead and direct a strategic program of reform to the state‑wide Planning and Design Code, based on evidence and research, in collaboration with the State Planning Commission.
* Collaborate with local government to drive implementation of local housing targets including driving the development of local housing strategies.
* Lead and direct the processing of private, local government and other state agency‑led code amendments in collaboration with the State Planning Commission.
About You
* High level expertise in planning and development processes and procedures and understanding of the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016 and associated codes and regulations.
* Extensive knowledge of the regulatory framework and compliance requirements specific to the housing and development sector in government.
* Experience working with and supporting high calibre decision‑making Committees to further State Government priorities.
* Expert knowledge of the SA Online Planning and Design Code.
* Demonstrated ability to work with professional independence under broad policy direction, determine professional objectives and priorities within the framework of the DHUD goals and manage competing agendas to meet program deadlines within budget and time constraints.
Desirable Qualification
A recognised degree or post‑graduate qualification that supports the relevant discipline of planning and development.
Special Conditions
Successful applicants may be required to obtain a satisfactory Department of Human Services Criminal History Check or National Police Check prior to employment. A renewal will be required every 3 years.
Enquiries
For all confidential enquiries, please contact Deb Sparrow, Senior HR Business Partner at or telephone .
Application Instructions
All applications must be submitted online. If you are interested in this opportunity, please submit a covering letter (no more than 2 pages), outlining your skills and experience in relation to the key capabilities outlined in the role statement, a current CV and the contact information of three referees including your current line manager. All applicants must complete a 'Pre‑Employment Declaration in the SA Public Sector' form.
Applications close: 12/12/2025 6:00 PM
Attachments
* Pre‑Employment Declaration.pdf
* SAES1 - Director Strategic Planning_DHUD_Role Statement.pdf
Flexibility Statement
The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part‑time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.
Seniority level: Director
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Business Development and Sales
Industries: Executive Offices, Government Relations Services, and Government Administration
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