Department for Housing and Urban Development
Job reference: 862532
Location: 5000 - ADELAIDE
Job status: Short Term Contract
Eligibility: Open to Everyone

Who are we:

Our department’s primary objective is the delivery of homes and housing options for South Australians. In response to the national housing crisis, we are committed to accelerating the build of a diverse range of housing options. We strive to find solutions to the urgent demand for housing security.

Our mission focuses on coordinating various portfolios related to housing, housing infrastructure, urban development, and planning. By ensuring sound decisions and efficient management, we strive to create sustainable, well-planned communities offering safe and affordable housing options.

Join us in our endeavour to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time and make a tangible difference in the lives of our community.

The Role (Max Appointment till 6 August 2027):

The Principal Policy Officer (Legislation) is responsible for providing high level advice to the Manager, Local Government Policy Unit, and Director, Office of Local Government on the local government legislative framework, and advice that identifies governance improvements.

The Principal Policy Officer (Legislation) also takes a leading role in the development and implementation of public policy reforms to improve the local government framework in South Australia. You will hold the following responsibilities:

• Contribute to local government legislation, policy initiatives and reform programs.
• Undertake complex research, analysis and evaluation of local government issues.
• Provide evidence-based advice and recommendations on public policy and projects relating to local government policy.
• Maintain relevant knowledge and understanding of current and trending issues to ensure relevant and timely advice.

About You:

To be successful in this position, you must be able to demonstrate experience across the following key capabilities:

• Experience working with local government, statutory authorities, boards, commissions or similar governance bodies.
• Experience and detailed knowledge of government processes, including decision making functions (e.g. Minister and Cabinet).
• Experience developing and implementing public policy, legislation, programs or projects in local government, government or related sectors.
• Experience in producing high-quality briefings, reports and recommendations for senior decision-makers.
• Experience with delivering high level and complex Ministerial and Cabinet advice, reports, submissions and presentations.

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 may be required every 3 years.

Remuneration:

ASO7 – $116,089 min – $125,490 max per annum plus superannuation.

Enquiries:

For all confidential enquiries, please  David Whiterod, Director, Office of Local Government at [email protected]

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: 03/11/2026 02:30 AM

Attachments:
- Pre-Employment Declaration.pdf
- ROLE STATEMENT - Principal Policy Officer (Legislation) - ASO7 - DHUD.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.