The State Government is reinforcing its commitment to expanding social and affordable housing by introducing a new requirement that SA Housing Trust will be formally consulted on all new planning code amendments.

This new provision will ensure social housing opportunities are considered on a case-by-case basis wherever possible as the State Government continues to provide more housing supply for South Australians.

The change comes following the continued advocacy for fairness in housing opportunities for all South Australians from Greens Leader Robert Simms.

As of now, new code amendments and Government housing developments require consultation with several agencies to ensure the changes are thoroughly assessed for their impact on essential services, infrastructure, environmental standards, and community needs.

The agencies currently consulted on changes includes the Environmental Protection Authority, the Department for Infrastructure and Transport, Adelaide Airport, utility providers such as SA Power Networks, as well as other bodies.

In March 2023, the State Government expanded the list of bodies consulted on for new code amendments by adding the Department for Education.

The changes will enshrine the SA Housing Trust in South Australia’s primary planning rulebook and ensures that decisions actively explore the needs and suitability for social housing in the affected areas.

Public consultation remains central to the code amendment process, with opportunities for community input and feedback on all proposed changes considered throughout the process.

Restoring trust in South Australia’s public housing system remains a priority for the State Government, having stopped the previous Liberal Government’s sale of public housing properties, and committing to biggest investment in public housing in decades.