Job description

• Assess and determine planning permit applications, including complex and major development proposals
• Undertake pre-application assessments and provide clear, practical planning advice
• Ensure all applications align with relevant legislation, planning schemes, and local policy frameworks
• Prepare comprehensive reports and recommendations for decision-making
• Provide expert written and verbal advice to councillors, staff, developers and the community
• Represent the organisation at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), including preparing submissions
• Facilitate and chair mediation meetings to resolve planning matters
• Contribute to the development and review of statutory planning policies and procedures
• Monitor changes to planning legislation and ensure practices remain current
• Support a strong customer service culture through effective communication and collaboration
• Attend committee meetings and brief stakeholders on planning matters as required

• Demonstrated experience in statutory planning, including assessment of complex applications
• Strong knowledge of Victorian planning legislation, planning schemes and regulatory frameworks
• Proven ability to interpret and apply planning policies and guidelines
• Highly developed communication skills, both written and verbal
• Strong stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills, with the ability to manage conflict and facilitate outcomes
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Experience preparing professional reports and providing advice to a variety of stakeholders
• Ability to work autonomously while contributing positively to a team environment

• Tertiary qualification in Town Planning or a related discipline
• Relevant professional experience in urban planning
• Current Victorian Driver Licence
• Proficiency in computer and word processing systems