Why this role matters

Development assessment is at the core of shaping our Shire’s neighbourhoods, environment and long‑term growth.

In this role, you will ensure that development across the region is compliant, defensible, aligned with planning legislation, and reflective of Council’s strategic direction. You will provide professional, timely and customer‑focused planning services to applicants, community members, internal staff and external agencies.

What you will be doing:

No two days are the same — you will work across assessments, site inspections, stakeholder engagement and compliance. You will:

• Administer and apply Council’s planning schemes and relevant legislation, providing clear and accurate advice to stakeholders.
• Assess, coordinate and review development applications, including undertaking site inspections and preparing well‑reasoned, defensible planning recommendations.
• Prepare high‑quality planning reports and documentation to support internal and Council decision‑makers.
• Monitor and enforce compliance with development approvals, legislation and planning scheme requirements.
• Engage and negotiate with applicants, consultants, and community members to resolve issues and support improved development outcomes.
• Collaborate with internal departments and technical specialists to ensure coordinated planning outcomes.
• Contribute positively to team culture by demonstrating professionalism, sound judgement and Council’s values.

What you will bring:

You are someone who can interpret planning legislation, analyse development proposals and communicate clearly with a diverse range of stakeholders. You will bring:

• Strong knowledge of Queensland planning legislation, planning scheme operation and Council development policies.
• Experience in development assessment, including preparing accurate, defensible reports.
• High level written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex planning matters clearly.
• Well-developed negotiation, mediation and conflict resolution skills.
• Strong organisational and time management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Digital capability, including GIS, records management systems and Microsoft Office.

Mandatory Requirements

• Tertiary qualifications (in a relevant urban and regional or town planning field) or a Diploma in Local Government (Planning) and/or substantial work experience relevant to the position
• Possess and maintain a current motor vehicle driver licence.

Desirable

• Experience in a local government development assessment environment.
• Eligibility for membership of the Planning Institute of Australia.