When people think about government or community housing jobs, they often picture frontline tenancy or policy positions. But behind the scenes, property roles play a vital part in keeping government works and public and community housing running smoothly — and many of these are offered on a temporary basis. 

In South Australia, the demand for skilled property professionals extends well beyond the private property and real estate sectors. Government departments and community housing providers regularly recruit temporary staff to manage assets and projects and ensure housing services continue to meet community needs. 

Why Temporary Property Roles Matter 

Temporary positions in the property space provide: 

• A pathway into government or not-for-profit housing. Many professionals use temporary contracts as a stepping stone into the sector.
  
  
• Hands-on experience. Roles are often project-based, giving exposure to compliance, maintenance and housing strategy. 
  
  
• Flexibility. Shorter contracts allow you to test out a new sector without long-term commitment.
  
  
• Networking opportunities. Temporary placements often put you alongside senior managers, contractors, and other housing professionals. 

Common Property Roles in Government 

Government agencies and local councils often recruit temporary staff for: 

• Property Officers – managing housing stock, inspections, and tenancy-related property matters. 

• Asset & Maintenance Coordinators – overseeing property repairs, upgrades, and contractor engagement. 

• Project Officers (Property / Housing) – supporting capital works, redevelopment or refurbishment programs. 

• Facilities Managers – ensuring buildings and housing complexes meet safety and compliance standards. 

These roles directly support the state’s social housing and capital works programs. 

Common Property Roles in Community Housing 

Community housing providers — from large organisations to smaller not-for-profits — also need skilled property professionals. Temporary roles include: 

• Housing & Property Officers – balancing property inspections with tenant support. 

• Property Administrators – managing databases, maintenance requests, and contractor scheduling. 

• Compliance & Reporting Officers – ensuring housing assets meet regulatory and funding requirements. 

• Development Support Roles – assisting with new housing projects or community redevelopments. 

Working in this sector provides the chance to make a direct impact on people’s lives, supporting those who need safe, affordable housing. 

Roles You Might Not Have Considered 

Beyond the frontline, property-related temporary opportunities also exist in: 

• Procurement & Contracts – managing supplier agreements for maintenance or building works. 

• Sustainability & Energy Projects – supporting initiatives to improve housing efficiency. 

• Data & Asset Systems Support – working with property management systems and reporting tools. 

These roles are less visible but are vital in ensuring housing organisations run effectively. 

Navigating a Career Through Temporary Roles 

If you’re interested in the property side of government or community housing, temporary roles can be an excellent way in. Here are some tips: 

1. Showcase your property and real estate skills. Experience in property management or facilities management is highly transferable. 
   
   
2. Be open to short-term contracts. Many temporary roles lead to extensions or permanent positions. 
   
   
3. Get your clearances sorted. Many government and community housing roles require a current Working with Children Check and a National Police Check before you can start work (and sometimes even before applying). Having these ready in advance can save time and show employers you’re prepared and job ready.
   
   
4. Highlight compliance knowledge. Understanding tenancy legislation, asset management, or WHS is highly valued.
   
   
5. Work with a recruiter. Agencies like Edge can assist you to access these roles, saving you time in the search. 

Property roles in government and community housing are about more than bricks and mortar — they’re about ensuring safe, sustainable homes and buildings for South Australians. 

Temporary positions in this space not only provide rewarding work but also open doors to long-term career opportunities. 

At Edge, we’ve been connecting property professionals with meaningful roles for over 27 years. Whether you’re seeking to broaden your experience or step into a sector that makes a real difference, we can help you find the right temporary property role.