Why join the Planning and Development team at East Gippsland Shire Council?
The East Gippsland Shire Council Planning and Development team is a multi‐skilled unit, with Statutory and Strategic planners, building and planning inspectors, technical experts and an excellent support team of administration officers. The team maintains a strong capacity and commitment to serving our community. We pride ourselves on our teamwork, resilience and collaborative approach both in the team and with our stakeholders.
We Are East Gippsland Shire
East Gippsland covers 10% of the state with over 21,000 square km of land including high country, national parks, marine parks, inland lake systems and stunning coastlines. EGSC offers challenging and rewarding skills development and the ability to work with a range of interesting strategic planning projects.
A unique blend of nature, culture, and recreational opportunities, East Gippsland Shire is a captivating destination for those looking to broaden their skills whilst enjoying an enviable lifestyle.
Position Overview
As a Principal Statutory Planner, you will lead the assessment and delivery of complex planning applications, permits, subdivisions and appeals in line with legislation and Council policy. You will provide expert advice to Council, the community and stakeholders, while mentoring and supervising a team of statutory planning officers. This role plays a key part in ensuring timely, high‐quality planning outcomes that support sustainable development across the Shire.
Key responsibilities
* Lead assessment and determination of complex planning permit, subdivision and development applications
* Prepare and present reports, recommendations and advice to Council, delegates and tribunals
* Manage and mentor statutory planning staff, overseeing workloads and performance
* Represent Council in planning appeals, enforcement matters and VCAT hearings
* Provide expert planning advice to customers, stakeholders and government agencies
Why You'll Love EGSC
* Flexible working arrangements including 60/40 hybrid office/WFH options, monthly ADOs and additional purchased leave options
* Work on a banded salary that increases annually to the top end of the band
* Support to grow your career through professional development opportunities and study assistance
* Discounted membership to our Recreation Centres
* 17 weeks paid parental leave
* Annual leave loading paid as a lump sum each year in December
* Employee Assistance Program and Social Club
* A stunning region to live, work and play in - beaches, lakes and mountains right at your fingertips!
* Diversity in range of interesting projects - natural environment, built environment, small towns, coastal development, rural land & agricultural matters.
What We Require From You (Key Selection Criteria)
* Tertiary qualification in town planning (or related field) and demonstrated work experience in planning (or related field).
* Good interpersonal skills including the ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with a wide range of stakeholders.
* Good knowledge of and the ability to interpret, the various applicable Acts and Regulations relating to planning matters.
* Ability to investigate, prepare and complete reports (some of which will be complex) on a wide range of planning matters, make independent decisions and make recommendations to management and Council.
* Willingness to work with, guide and coach others in a diverse team.
Job Details
This is a permanent, full‐time opportunity, based in Bairnsdale. The successful candidate will be expected to work from the office at least 3 days per week. While we offer a hybrid 60/40 in office/WFH model you need to live in or near the region to perform the duties of the role. If successful, you will need to undertake a police check. You must also be legally entitled to work in Australia.
How To Apply
If this sounds like your next career and lifestyle move, apply now and attach:
* Your resume
* A cover letter
* A statement providing responses to each of the key selection criteria
Applications close at 11.45pm on 9 April 2026.
Questions?
For a confidential discussion, please contact Kellinde Chester, Manager Planning and Development, on (03) 5153 9500.
EEO Statement
East Gippsland Shire Council is committed to being a diverse and inclusive organisation that supports flexible and accessible working arrangements for all. This includes people with a disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people who identify as LGBTIQA+, gender diverse people, religiously, culturally and linguistically diverse people and people of any age.
East Gippsland Shire Council is committed to upholding the Child Safe Standards and has a zero tolerance for child abuse and harm. To uphold these standards a valid working with children check is required to be held for applicable positions.
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