Development Assessment Planner

Port Macquarie Hastings Council; Port Macquarie; On-site; AUD 101,000 - 113,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Gym membership discount

Purchase leave

Career development

Annual salary increases

Long service leave

Employee assistance program

Salary packaging

Awards ceremony

Job summary

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council is seeking an experienced Development Assessment Planner to join a collaborative team on the Mid North Coast. You will provide expert planning advice, liaise with developers and agencies, and drive high-quality outcomes that support sustainable growth.

With strong local government experience, you will manage development assessments, participate in pre-lodgement activities and contribute to continuous improvement while delivering a customer‑driven service.

Qualifications

• Recent experience in development assessment within a local government context.
• Strong knowledge of relevant planning legislation and processes.
• Proven ability to engage with developers, government agencies and the community.

Responsibilities

• Assess and determine development applications in accordance with the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act.
• Respond to general enquiries and participate in Duty Planner roster.
• Contribute to pre-lodgement and Development Assessment Panel meetings.
• Support business improvement initiatives and provide prompt, client-focused service.
• Collaborate with government agencies to achieve high-quality planning outcomes.

Skills

Development assessment experience

Stakeholder engagement

Communication skills

Local government knowledge

Job description

About The Opportunity

Are you an experienced planner looking to make a real impact in shaping great communities and want to be part of an experienced team on the Mid North Coast?

Working on some of the region's most important projects, you will provide expert planning advice, collaborate closely with developers, government agencies and the community, and contribute to high-quality planning outcomes that support sustainable growth. You will also have the opportunity to support other planning professionals within a collaborative and high-performing team.

To help us achieve this we are seeking an experienced Development Assessment Planner to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for undertaking development assessment and associated activities for Council.

To succeed in this role, you will have relevant recent experience in development assessment within a local government context. Strong working knowledge of the relevant legislation as well as proven stakeholder engagement and excellent communication skills is essential.

On a Typical Day This Role Will

• Assess and determine a wide range of Development Applications, from basic to complex in accordance with the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act and regulations in a fair and equitable manner.
• Respond to general enquiries, including taking part in Council’s Duty Planner roster.
• Take part in wide ranging pre-lodgement and Development Assessment Panel meetings.
• Contribute to business improvement initiatives.
• Promote and provide a Development Assessment Service that is prompt, reliable, professional and customer driven.
• Work collaboratively with government agencies.

Remuneration And Benefits

Employment Type: Full time, Permanent 35 hours per week

Salary (exclusive of super): Starting in the range of $101,015 to $113,067 depending on skills and experience PLUS superannuation of 12%.

Opportunity for performance-based salary increase available after achieving set goals.

This role also qualifies for a Leaseback or Vehicle allowance in addition to the salary range on offer.

Benefits

• Flexible work arrangements - hybrid working and flexi-time
• Discounted gym membership through membership to Fitness Passport
• Generous leave provisions including purchase leave, My Leave and parental leave
• Career development opportunities
• Annual salary increase as per the Local Government (State) Award 2026 plus annual salary review
• Long service leave after 5 years
• Generous employee assistance program
• Salary packaging options, including novated leases are available through Salary Packaging Australia and Maxxia
• Recognition through our annual awards ceremony celebrating and rewarding staff achievements

About The Port Macquarie Hastings Region

The region is one of Australia's most enviable locations. We boast a stunning hinterland, kilometres of pristine beaches, national parks, playgrounds, sporting facilities, restaurants, galleries, theatres and a genuine community vibe. The Mid-North Coast is perfect for hiking, surfing, camping, fishing, exploration, sports, arts, theatre, food and wine.

Questions?

If you would like to know more about this opportunity or have any questions about the role, please contact Pat Galbraith-Robertson, Development Assessment Planning Manager on [phone].

Applications Close: Sunday 27 September at 11:30pm

At Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the vibrant community we serve—where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to thrive.

We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, veterans, people with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process or in the workplace, please contact us at [e-mail].

We’re here to support you every step of the way.