Colac Otway Shire, located just two hours west of Melbourne, is one of Victoria’s most picturesque and diverse regions. From volcanic plains and rich agricultural land to the iconic Great Ocean Road and Otway Ranges, the Shire blends natural beauty with growing communities and vibrant tourism centres. Colac is the region’s key industrial and commercial hub, while Apollo Bay provides a dynamic coastal focus. Council is committed to enhancing quality of life through sustainable development, inclusive community planning, and responsive public services.
The Council is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for both residents and visitors, fostering a thriving, sustainable, and inclusive community. With a focus on strategic planning, economic development, and environmental sustainability, Colac Otway Shire Council delivers key services in planning, environmental management, community support, and public safety. Committed to excellence, innovation, and strong community engagement, the Council’s vision is to enhance livability, prosperity, and preserve the Shire’s natural beauty and diverse heritage.
About the Role
The Coordinator Statutory Planning leads the delivery of statutory planning services within the Planning and Building department. The role is responsible for managing a team of statutory planners, providing expert guidance, overseeing the preparation of high-quality reports, and supporting engagement with Councillors, the community, and referral authorities.
This role does not carry a personal caseload; instead, the focus is on enabling the team to navigate complex applications efficiently and consistently. The planning workload across the Shire is broad and often complex, including major residential growth areas, commercial developments, tourism proposals, quarries, and planning within highly regulated environmental contexts.
The Coordinator ensures planning decisions align with the Colac Otway Planning Scheme, Council priorities, and broader strategic objectives, while also contributing to interdepartmental collaboration and continuous service improvement. The role supports representation at VCAT and public forums where required.
This Band 8 position offers flexible work arrangements, a monthly RDO, and the option for full use private vehicle.
Candidate Profile
We are seeking a qualified and experienced statutory planner with strong practical knowledge of the Victorian planning system and local government processes. You will have proven ability in interpreting planning policy, preparing clear and accurate reports, and supporting the professional development of planning staff.
You will bring strong leadership capability, excellent communication and negotiation skills, and confidence representing the organisation in public and formal settings. This role would suit an experienced planner with demonstrated capability and ambition to lead, or someone currently in a team leadership or coordination role seeking broader scope and responsibility.
A relevant tertiary qualification in planning or a related discipline, along with a current driver’s licence, is required. Local government experience is essential.
Application Process
Public Sector People (PSP) has partnered with Colac Otway Shire Council in the recruitment to this role. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which this opportunity takes place and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
Colac Otway Shire Council is a child-safe organisation, committed to creating an environment where children are safe, respected and empowered. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
For further information, including the candidate information pack, please contact Marcel on 0423 668 *** or
Applications for this role close on Thursday October 9th, 2025.