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.

Advantages

- 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 (02) 6581 8037.

Interested in Applying?

Please complete the application form below and answer the questions which relate to the essential requirements found in the position description, then upload a copy of your resume and cover letter.

You will find the position description when you apply for the role.





You may find it helpful to write your response to the questions in a word document then copy/paste this into the application form once you are ready to submit your application.

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 [email protected]. We're here to support you every step of the way.

Notes

Please upload documents in PDF format.

We often ask our preferred applicants to complete pre-employment checks.

This may include: Reference Checks

- National Criminal Police Check
- Medical Assessment
- Qualification Verification
- Working with Children Check Verification.

PMHC's recruitment notification process is primarily via system generated emails. Please ensure your email is correct before submitting an application to avoid missing crucial updates and outcomes. Email communication notifications are used for but not limited to: application received, interview booking tools, confirmation of interview, request for references/more information, delay notifications, testing/assessments (aptitude/psychometric/industry specific) and application outcomes (unsuccessful before or after interview).

Please regularly check your 'junk mail' or ensure our email address [email protected] and Pulse email [email protected] is set to 'trustworthy'.

Port Macquarie Hastings Council adheres to the principles of a child safe organisation and is committed to the care and protection of all children and young people.

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