Why a council career could be your best move in 2026
With flexible roles, above-award pay, on-the-job learning and more, council roles offer the kind of balance, stability and purpose that can be hard to find elsewhere.
As the new year begins, many South Australians use this time to reflect – thinking about what’s working, what’s not and what they want their year ahead to look like. For a growing number of people, this often means thinking about changing careers – a trend reflected in the fact that January sees the highest ratio of applicants to job advertisements out of any other time of the year.
While many assume pay to be the main driver behind changing jobs, it actually tends to be lower down on the list of reasons why people decide to leave. Workplace culture, flexibility, professional development and purpose consistently rank higher as motivators – all qualities that align closely with South Australian local government roles.
A career that supports communities every day
Council work touches nearly every aspect of local life – the parks families visit, the roads they drive to work on and the services they rely on. Across South Australia, more than 9000 people in 100 different services are employed by local councils – all in roles that directly contribute to the community’s wellbeing and liveability.
These services vary across several sectors, including:
- Environmental and sustainability, including water management, biodiversity, waste and climate planning.
- Community services such as youth work, aged care support, public health and community development.
- Infrastructure teams across engineering, asset management, design and construction.
- Business and administration from HR and finance to communications, governance and economic development.
- Parks, gardens and outdoor teams that maintain the natural open spaces locals rely on.
- Tourism and visitor services, especially in regional councils with growing visitor economies.
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Why choose a career in council?
For many South Australians, council roles offer the kind of balance, stability and purpose that can be hard to find elsewhere, such as:
Supportive conditions
Local councils pride themselves on offering positive working conditions and friendly workplaces, often including:
- Above-award pay
- Enhanced superannuation
- Insurance coverage
- Free parking
- Salary packaging
- Additional leave options (paid parental and study leave)
A better work life balance
- Full-time, part-time and casual roles are widely available
- Hybrid arrangements with flexible hours and compressed weeks
- Rostered days off and time in lieu
Health and wellbeing
Councils across the state invest in staff wellbeing through initiatives such as:
- Annual health checks (including flu vaccinations)
- Employee assistance services
- Subsidised fitness activities
- Expanded sick leave for appointments
- Access to quiet rooms
- Social clubs and hobby groups
Training, development and multiple career pathways
- On-the-job learning and apprenticeships
- Graduate programs
- Further study
- Leadership development
Inclusive, diverse workplaces with disability access and inclusion plans
- Workplace adjustments
- Accessible facilities
- Partnerships with disability employment services
Work that makes a difference
Council staff see the direct impact of their work – whether it’s improved recreational spaces, a revitalised park or a well-run community service. For many, the most rewarding part of the job is contributing to the wellbeing of locals and shaping the places people call home.
Start your career in council
Whether you’re looking to gain a qualification, transitioning from study or hoping to transfer your skills from an existing career, South Australia’s councils offer opportunities for people at every stage of life.
For more information on career pathways, programs and benefits, visit Careers in Council.
This article was brought to you by InDaily and LGA South Australia.
