Department: Development Department Employment type: Permanent Full Time Position Work Arrangement: In office PrincipalStrategic Planner Helpshape the future of our municipality!

Swan Hill Rural City

Council is looking foran experienced and motivated Principal Strategic Planner to lead key planningprojects that support growth, investment and liveability across themunicipality. This is a senior role opportunity toinfluence the long-term direction of the region. You will work on a diverserange of strategic planning initiatives, including planning scheme amendments, landuse strategies, growth planning and community engagement.

What you will be doing - Leadingstrategic planning projects from inception through to delivery.

- Preparing andmanaging planning scheme amendments.
- Developingplans, policies and strategies that support future growth and development.
- Workingclosely with the community, government agencies and key stakeholders.
- Providingexpert advice on strategic planning matters and planning legislation.
- Managingconsultants and specialist project teams.
- Preparingreports, submissions and briefing papers for Council and senior management.
- RepresentingCouncil at Planning Panels, Advisory Committees and other forums. About you You'll be an experienced planner who canbalance big-picture thinking with practical delivery. You'll be comfortablemanaging complex projects, building relationships with stakeholders andproviding sound strategic advice. To be successful, you will have:
- A tertiaryqualification in Urban and Regional Planning or a related discipline.
- Significantexperience in strategic planning, ideally within local government.
- Experiencepreparing and implementing planning scheme amendments.




- Soundknowledge of the Planning and Environment Act and Victorian PlanningProvisions.
- Experiencepresenting to Planning Panels and Advisory Committees.
- Strongcommunication, stakeholder engagement and project management skills.
- Well-developedanalytical and problem-solving abilities.
- A currentdriver's licence
- SatisfactoryPolice Check You'll bepart of a supportive team that is passionate about making a positive differencefor the Swan Hill community. This is an opportunity to work on meaningfulprojects, influence the region's growth and leave a lasting impact on thefuture of the municipality. Leave & Flexibility - Four weeksannual leave + 17.5 % leave loading
- 12 days’personal (sick/carer’s) leave
- Paid parentaland adoption leave
- Long serviceleave (pro-rata after 7 years)
- Flexible workarrangements, including work from home, and flexible hours depending on role
- Option topurchase additional leave Benefits & Culture - Salarypackaging options (including superannuation salary sacrifice)
- Subsidisedgym memberships
- Active socialclub Applications close 12 noon on Friday, 14 August 2026.

Why Swan

Hill? Because it’s wherelifestyle and opportunity come together! Swan Hill is a place where families flourishand life feels full. Picture relaxed weekends exploring peaceful countryside,unwinding by the Murray River, and soaking in breathtaking sunsets.

With great schools, family-friendly activities,and abundant parks and open spaces, Swan Hill offers the ideal blend ofcommunity, connection and career opportunities. Treat yourself to the Mallee’s renowned freshproduce and enjoy easy access to natural treasures like lakes, wetlands,forests, and more – right on your doorstep. Learn more about living in Swan Hill at Dream Swan Hill and explore the Swan Hill ResidentGuide .

File Name

📌 Principal Strategic Planner (Swan Hill)
🏢 Swan Hill Rural City Council
📍 Swan Hill