Dr. Suzanne Hunt

Dr Suzanne Paula Hunt is the Director of the Geological Survey of South Australia (GSSA), appointed in March 2026. She leads the state's precompetitive geoscience programs, providing strategic direction for geological mapping, mineral systems research, geoscientific data management, and resource prospectivity initiatives that support South Australia's exploration and development of critical minerals, energy resources, and subsurface systems.

With more than 30 years of experience across geoscience, mineral exploration, petroleum systems, and subsurface energy, Dr Hunt has built a distinguished career spanning both the resources industry and government sectors. Prior to joining GSSA, she held senior executive and technical leadership roles across the mining, oil and gas industries, including serving as Global Head of Exploration at OZ Minerals. She has also held leadership and exploration positions with Beach Energy, Mitsui E&P, AWE Limited, and Santos, where she was responsible for exploration strategy, resource evaluation, and portfolio growth across a range of commodities and energy systems. 

Early in her career, Dr Hunt managed the Mawson Station Geophysics Observatory in Antarctica, spending 18 months undertaking scientific operations in one of the world's most challenging environments. She also worked as a geotechnical engineer, providing a strong technical foundation that has continued to shape her multidisciplinary approach to geoscience and resource development.

As Director of GSSA, Dr Hunt is a strong advocate for integrating geology, geophysics, geochemistry, geochronology, and advanced digital technologies to accelerate mineral discovery, particularly beneath cover. She is committed to enhancing the accessibility and value of South Australia's geoscientific data through modern platforms and initiatives that support industry investment, research collaboration, and evidence-based decision-making.

Dr Hunt is a Fellow of Engineers Australia (FIEAust), a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (FAusIMM), and a Member of the Camborne School of Mines (MCSM). Her leadership continues to strengthen South Australia's position as a global destination for mineral and energy exploration and as a recognised leader in precompetitive geoscience.