Uni Hub Spencer Gulf is helping to meet the ongoing demand for qualified planners in South Australia, thanks to a two-year pilot program funded by State Government and the LGA’s Local Government Research and Development Scheme.

The program will enable participating councils to support four employees – either from existing staff members or external hires – to become qualified planners.

Uni Hub Spencer Gulf and the Murray River Study Hub will partner with the University of New England (UNE) and the Planning Institute of South Australia to deliver the program.

Uni Hub Spencer Gulf CEO Anita Kuss said the program would support students to study a Bachelor, Graduate Diploma or Masters Degree in Urban and Regional Planning with the University of New England. 

“Councils have been telling us for some time now that there is a skills shortage in qualified planners in regional South Australia,” Ms Kuss said.

“This program will allow people already living in the regions to gain a professionally accredited university qualification in Urban and Regional Planning – without having to move to Adelaide to study on-campus. 

“The program will provide participating councils with $20,000 per student subsidy which will help offset the costs of employee training.

“Investing in locals can provide a more stable workforce and succession planning, helps raise awareness of the range of professional and technical careers available in local government and has economic and social benefits that flow-on right through the community.”

Applications are now open and councils interested in participating in this program are encouraged to contact Uni Hub Spencer Gulf or Murray River Study Hub to discuss their application and obtain an copy of the application form. Applications close 10 October 2023.

Contact: Murray River Study Hub  Program Manager Vanessa Leigh: 0410 879 887,  vanessa@mrsh.org.au or Uni Hub Spencer Gulf CEO Anita Kuss: 0427 609 404,  ceo@unihubsg.org

Pictured above: Uni Hub Spencer Gulf CEO Anita Kuss, left, with LGA President Mayor Dean Johnson and LGA CEO Clinton Jury.