Senior Social Planner

- A role where you drive the outcomes

- Permanent, full-time role

- $121,482 + 12% superannuation

About the Opportunity

As a Senior Social Planner within the Park Lands, Policy & Sustainability Program, you will help shape a more inclusive, equitable and connected city. You will bring social research, policy and community development expertise to Council’s planning and decision-making, ensuring the needs of Adelaide’s residents, workers, visitors and students are considered in the development of policies, programs and services.

Working across a diverse portfolio of social planning priorities, you will lead research, social impact analysis, policy development and strategic projects that respond to emerging community needs. Current priorities include homelessness, disability access and inclusion, safer cities, and social infrastructure planning aligned with Council’s 2024–2028 Strategic Plan.

You will also provide expert advice and recommendations to Council and Executive Management, build strategic partnerships across government and the community sector, and work collaboratively with stakeholders to strengthen community capacity and celebrate social diversity. The role also includes supporting the evaluation and continuous improvement of programs and services that contribute to positive social outcomes across the city.

To view a copy of the position description, please click here.

Working Rights – Eligibility

We welcome applications from candidates with valid Australian work rights, including those holding a visa with sufficient and appropriate work rights for the position. Australian citizenship is not required; however, visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

About You

To be successful in this role you will have:

- Proven experience in social research and planning, policy development, monitoring government policy, analysing data, project managing and implementing social infrastructure initiatives.

- Sound knowledge of community engagement principles and their application.

- Knowledge of community and social development principles and their application including understanding of the role of a Capital City Government, needs of different population groups and socio-urban characteristics of an inner city environment and the social service responses.

- Understanding of major social policy issues and players, including the role of the non-government sector and the 3 spheres of government in the provision of social services.

- Knowledge of government and non-government policy and programs and sources of funding and current social research institutions.

- Demonstrated commitment to internal and external customers and to working with the community through consultation using community development principles.

About Us

Located in the geographic heart of Kaurna Country, the City of Adelaide celebrates its cultural heritage, unique natural surrounds and structures its footprint in a way that allows it to adapt to the changing needs of the community and a dynamic global landscape. Our focus is on our community’s wellbeing and quality of life - investing in city improvements and on future planning, so we continue to design a liveable city where future generations can continue to live authentic and meaningful lives. This is an exciting opportunity to join our team and be a bigger part of our amazing city!

At the City of Adelaide, we thrive in an environment that is welcoming, inclusive and safe, and celebrates difference. We value and embrace our diverse perspectives and recognise the value diversity has in fuelling innovation and enabling brilliant experiences for our diverse community.

For Further Enquiries & How to Apply

All enquiries regarding this position will remain private and confidential and can be directed to Jo Menadue on 08 8203 7048.

Please submit a Resume and a Cover Letter via the apply online button below expressing the skills, experience and qualities you can bring to this position addressed to Jo Menadue, Team Leader, Social Planning.

Please review the position description prior to submitting an application by following the prompts to apply.

For more information about what it’s like to work for the City of Adelaide, including the benefits, please visit www.cityofadelaide.com.au/careers

Applications close 11.59pm, 27 October 2026.

Please be advised this is a permanent full time position with starting salary at the Level 7 Classification commencing at $121,482 + 12% superannuation.

As part of the recruitment process candidates will be required to undertake a National Police Check.

We continue to work hard to ensure our recruitment process is safe for people of diverse backgrounds.

Please note, applications received via the email address below will not be considered. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments to provide a positive, barrier-free recruitment process and supportive workplace. Our commitment to inclusivity means we welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disabilities, and candidates from with a range of lived experiences. If you require assistance with our recruitment process, you are more than welcome to connect with our People Services team on (08) 8203 7333 [email protected]