Western Downs Regional Council | Permanent role between $91,536 and $95,304 | Regional Queensland
Public Sector People are partnering with Western Downs Regional Council to appoint a Planning Officer Development Assessment to join its Planning and Environment team.
Reporting to the Principal Planner, this role provides an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic planner to further develop their career while contributing to the sustainable growth of one of Queensland's largest regional local government areas.
Working within a collaborative and supportive planning team, you will assess a broad range of development applications, provide planning advice to internal and external stakeholders, and contribute to quality planning outcomes that support the region's future growth.
The Role
This is a varied planning position where no two days are the same. You will manage a diverse portfolio of development assessment work while working closely with applicants, consultants, government agencies and the wider community.
Key responsibilities include:
- Assessing development applications under the Planning Act 2016 and the Western Downs Planning Scheme
- Preparing planning reports and recommendations for development applications
- Providing planning advice to applicants, developers and the community
- Conducting pre-lodgment meetings and negotiating development outcomes
- Investigating planning compliance matters where required
- Liaising with internal departments and external government agencies
- Supporting continuous improvement across development assessment processes
- Provide input into Planning Scheme Amendments and Strategic Planning Projects (as required).
This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to broaden their planning experience while making a genuine contribution to the future development of the Western Downs region.
About You
You may already be working in Local Government or be looking to transition from private consultancy into a council environment.
You will bring:
- A qualification in Urban and Regional Planning (or equivalent) eligible for Planning Institute of Australia membership
- Experience assessing or preparing development applications within Queensland planning legislation
- Knowledge of the Planning Act 2016, DA Rules and State Planning Policy
- Strong report writing and analytical skills
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities
- The ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment
A collaborative approach and commitment to delivering high-quality customer service
Local Government development assessment experience will be highly regarded but is not essential for candidates with relevant Queensland planning experience.
Why Join Western Downs Regional Council?
This role offers:
- An opportunity to work on a diverse range of development applications across a rapidly growing regional council
- A supportive and experienced planning team committed to professional development
- Exposure to the full development assessment process and broad stakeholder engagement
- Genuine work-life balance within a welcoming regional community
- The opportunity to make a tangible impact on the future growth and livability of the Western Downs region
Western Downs Regional Council is committed to delivering outstanding services to its communities while fostering an inclusive, collaborative and values-driven workplace where people are empowered to succeed.
Apply Now
To apply, please upload your CV and cover letter or contact:
Adrian Holder
Lead Consultant – Public Sector People
adrian@publicsectorpeople.com.au
Applications close: Sunday 26th July at 5pm


