As we look toward the 2026 South Australian State Election, the Institute has an important opportunity to shape the policies that will guide our State’s built environment for decades to come. Over the past several months, the SA Chapter has developed seven comprehensive Policy Statements, each setting out clear priorities, evidence-based recommendations, and practical actions for government.
These statements reflect extensive consultation across our membership, committees, and national policy teams. They respond directly to current challenges in planning, housing, procurement, sustainability, design quality, and the future of the profession.
The next stage of our advocacy work is now underway. Over the coming weeks, SA Chapter Manager Craig Glasson and I will be meeting with Ministers, Shadow Ministers, and representatives of minor parties to present the Institute’s positions, discuss our priority actions, and reinforce the essential role of architects in shaping a resilient, equitable, and well-designed South Australia.
Below is a short overview of each Policy Statement.
1. Adelaide Park Lands Protections
Our Park Lands are central to Adelaide’s identity, liveability, and cultural significance. The statement calls for stronger legislative safeguards, improved governance, meaningful engagement with Kaurna representatives, and a commitment to long-term stewardship of this irreplaceable landscape. Read the full Policy Statement HERE
2. Artificial Intelligence & the Built Environment
AI is transforming design, planning, and construction. This statement outlines the need for responsible AI governance, ethical use, appropriate regulation, transparency, and investment in tools that support innovation while safeguarding public interest, cultural knowledge, and professional accountability. Read the full Policy Statement HERE
3. Arts & Culture
A creative State is a prosperous State. This statement highlights the value of embedding artists and makers in design processes, strengthening partnerships, expanding cultural infrastructure, and ensuring arts and culture are recognised as essential to South Australia’s social, cultural, and economic wellbeing. Read the full Policy Statement HERE
4. Housing: Quality, Supply, Diversity & Affordability
South Australia needs more homes—but also better homes. This statement advocates for climate-resilient, healthy, accessible housing; improved construction quality; stronger standards (including ventilation, condensation management and whole-of-home performance); and policies that support diverse housing types across greenfield and infill contexts. Read the full Policy Statement HERE
5. Modern Methods of Construction (MMC)
MMC can accelerate delivery, improve sustainability, and enhance quality. The statement outlines how government can lead by example through procurement, pilot projects, regulatory alignment, and partnerships with industry to support innovation, manufacturing capability, and workforce development. Read the full Policy Statement HERE
6. Procurement
Good design delivers long-term value. This statement calls for design excellence and value-based procurement, better use of existing frameworks, fair competition, strengthened design review processes, and procurement models that support innovation, sustainability, decarbonisation, and high-quality public outcomes. Read the full Policy Statement HERE
7. Urban Planning
A design-led planning system is essential for creating liveable, sustainable and well-connected communities. This statement recommends improvements to strategic planning, infill design quality, density done well, public realm investment, integrated transport, green infrastructure, and clearer pathways for embedding design expertise across government. Read the full Policy Statement HERE
What Happens Next
The Institute will now begin targeted meetings with key decision-makers across government and opposition. These discussions will ensure our priorities are clearly understood, and that the profession’s voice is front-of-mind as parties develop their election platforms.
Thank you to all members who contributed insights, expertise, and feedback throughout this process. Your engagement is critical to ensuring architecture remains central to South Australia’s future.
Kirstie Coultas
SA Chapter President