Sutherland Shire Council is planning for the future – and we're looking for passionate professionals to help shape it. As we build a dynamic, future-focused Urban Futures team, we're seeking an experienced Senior Strategic Planner to help lead the way in guiding how our community grows, moves, and thrives.
In this pivotal role you'll lead complex planning projects, develop key strategies and policies, and offer expert advice that balances growth, sustainability, liveability, and productivity across our beautiful region.
About The Role
The Senior Strategic Planner will play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of our organisation. This position involves a comprehensive understanding of market dynamics and the ability to translate insights into actionable strategies.
As a key member of our leadership team, you will be responsible for developing long‐term strategic plans, conducting market research, and facilitating workshops that encourage creative problem‐solving and strategic thinking.
Responsibilities
* Leading the development of Local Environmental Plans, Development Control Plans, and other strategic planning policies.
* Providing clear, expert planning advice to Council, internal teams, and the community.
* Preparing professional reports and policy papers to support Council's decision‐making.
* Managing complex projects and delivering high‐quality, community‐focused outcomes.
* Mentoring junior planners and supporting a culture of growth and learning.
* Collaborating across disciplines to deliver integrated, place‐based solutions.
Qualifications
You're a confident, experienced strategic planner who thrives on complexity and brings a balance of big‐picture thinking and practical delivery. You're someone who communicates clearly, leads with purpose, and works collaboratively across teams and stakeholders.
* Tertiary qualifications in planning or a related discipline.
* Extensive experience developing and implementing strategic planning policies.
* Demonstrated ability to lead projects and mentor emerging planners.
* Advanced knowledge of relevant planning legislation in NSW.
* Excellent analytical, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
* A current Driver's Licence.
* A valid Working With Children Check (or willing to obtain).
Benefits & Compensation
Package: $107,476 – $119,782 gross p.a. plus 12% superannuation. Salary will be determined based on the skills and experience of the successful candidate.
Hours of work: Permanent Full Time 35 hours per week, with option of 19 day month flex time arrangement available.
To benefit your wellbeing you will have access to a fitness passport, employee assistance program, annual flu shots, health and wellbeing programme and novated lease options.
Application Process
Apply by responding to our online application questions and submitting your resume outlining why we are a great fit. The deadline for applications is 11:59 pm Wednesday 24 March 2026. Interviews will be facilitated within two weeks of closing.
Contact
Caleb Ball – Strategic Planning Team Leader –
Alison Wady – Talent Acquisition Business Partner –
Council is a Child Safe Organisation and is committed to ensuring the NSW Government's Child Safe Standards are incorporated in our procedures, practices, programs, and events.
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