Boosting housing supply and improving affordability to help to shape a better future for the people of NSW

• Great design. Meaningful impact. Communities that thrive.
• Temporary (Up to June 2029) full-time opportunity,
• Office location based in Parramatta with flexible working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $133,348 to $146,945 + super

The Housing Delivery Authority

The NSW Government is committed to providing the homes that young people, families and workers need through reforms that are designed to streamline planning approvals for major housing developments. To make this happen as quickly as possible, the Housing Delivery Authority | Planning (HDA) is leading a new streamlined State Significant Development (SSD) pathway and concurrent rezoning process.

Be part of the reform and take the opportunity to make a positive difference for NSW! Play a role in increasing housing supply near existing infrastructure vital to supporting thriving, vibrant communities including more options for young people now and into the future. Work in the team responsible for a new approval pathway for major housing projects.  

The role

Help elevate the role of design across NSW by supporting projects, design reviews, research and policy development that influence the quality of the built environment. Working with the Housing Delivery Authority, Planning Assessments team, you'll contribute to initiatives that help create better places for communities and future generations.

You'll build strong partnerships across government, industry and the community while providing expert design advice, delivering projects and helping shape design outcomes in a dynamic environment. This is an opportunity to combine strategic thinking, collaboration and innovation to make a meaningful impact on how communities experience the places where they live, work and connect.

For more information about this position, read the full Role Description: Senior Design Advisor

What you will bring to the role

• Demonstrated ability to build strong relationships and engage effectively with a broad range of stakeholders to achieve positive outcomes and advance shared objectives.  
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills with the ability to evaluate complex issues, exercise sound judgement and develop practical solutions.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to prepare high-quality written material and convey complex information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to manage competing priorities, work independently and collaboratively, and deliver high-quality outcomes within tight timeframes.

What is an essential requirement:

• Tertiary qualifications in Architecture, Urban Design and / or Landscape Architecture or other relevant discipline or equivalent experience.

About Us

At the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI), you could shape your world while helping us shape the future of NSW. Together, we create vibrant communities, places and precincts, and manage land, assets and property.

(We are a high-performing organisation that proudly reflects the communities we serve. Our diversity strengthens our cultural capability and enables us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people across NSW. As an inclusive and accessible workplace, we value your contribution, lived experience and cultural knowledge, and we want you to feel supported, connected and empowered to succeed. With flexible work arrangements, job share options, workplace adjustments and various employee affinity groups, we are here to help you thrive every day.

Join us

If this role sounds like the right fit for you, we encourage you to apply with your CV and cover letter. We’d love to hear from you and explore how you can shape your world with us. Applications close Sunday 6 Sep 2026 at 11:55pm. Should you require further information about the role please contact Guy Pinkerton (guy.pinkerton@dphi.nsw.gov.au)

A talent pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

Check out our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for the role or contact our Aboriginal Career pathways team for a yarn.

We encourage and support applications from people with disability. Please reach out to us to discuss any accommodations or adjustments that may be needed during the recruitment process, ensuring that you have every opportunity to showcase your talent, skills, and potential. Contact the Talent Team via talent.acquisition@dpie.nsw.gov.au or (02) 63637676​ - HR Support, option 2, DPHI People Advisory, option 1 and reference 'Request an Adjustment - Job Title and Reference Number'.

Please note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident or hold a valid Australian working Visa for the duration of the appointment. This role is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including a criminal record check.