Senior Planner Jobs

A Senior Planner in Australia is a highly experienced professional in the field of urban planning, responsible for leading complex development projects, assessing planning applications, providing strategic advice, and managing stakeholder engagement, often with a focus on shaping sustainable urban environments by navigating complex legislation and policy frameworks within the Australian planning system; key duties include conducting detailed analysis, preparing comprehensive reports, facilitating community consultation, and advocating for policy improvements to achieve positive planning outcomes across various scales of development projects. 

Key responsibilities may include:

• Development assessment:
• Evaluating complex development applications against relevant planning schemes, policies, and environmental considerations, making informed recommendations on approvals with detailed justification. 
• Strategic planning:
• Contributing to the development and implementation of strategic plans, including masterplans, precinct plans, and policy frameworks, considering long-term community needs and economic drivers. 
• Stakeholder engagement:
• Facilitating public consultation processes, engaging with community groups, developers, government agencies, and other stakeholders to gather feedback and build consensus on planning proposals. 
• Technical analysis:
• Conducting research, data analysis, and environmental impact assessments to inform planning decisions, utilizing GIS and other relevant software. 
• Report writing:
• Preparing comprehensive reports outlining planning rationale, assessment findings, and recommendations for decision-making. 
• Policy advice:
• Providing expert advice on planning policy development and interpretation, identifying potential issues and proposing improvements. 
• Project management:
• Leading complex planning projects, managing timelines, budgets, and ensuring project deliverables are met. 
• Leadership and mentoring:
• Providing guidance and support to junior planning staff. 

Required skills and qualifications:

• Tertiary qualification:
• A relevant degree in Urban Planning, Town Planning, or a related field. 
• Professional registration:
• Membership with the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) or equivalent professional body is highly desirable. 
• Experience:
• Extensive experience in urban planning, including development assessment, strategic planning, and community engagement. 
• Technical knowledge:
• Proficient in GIS, planning software, data analysis techniques, and relevant legislation. 
• Communication skills:
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively present complex planning information to diverse audiences.