State Planning Policies

A state-wide vision for South Australia’s planning and design system

The State Planning Policies set out a framework for land use in South Australia that aims to improve the liveability, sustainability and prosperity of the state.

They represent the highest level of policy in our new planning system, and address the economic, environmental and social planning priorities for South Australia.

As a statutory instrument under the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016, the draft State Planning Policies outline the planning and design ambitions for South Australia and will guide both regional and metropolitan planning and development in the future.

Importantly, the policies consider changes to how and where South Australians live and work, as well as other important issues such as housing supply and diversity; climate change; and strategic transport infrastructure.

The State Planning Policies aim to provide greater direction, clarity and efficiency in our planning system and will help us respond to modern opportunities and challenges.

On 1 July 2019,  Phase One of the new planning system became operational in outback areas. The State Planning Policies have now taken effect in these areas.