An exceptional leadership role to pioneer the planning of a new global city in Western Sydney from its inception
Permanent/ongoing full-time role
Based in Penrith with flexible working arrangements supported
TRP from $247,865 including superannuation, commensurate with experience
The Bradfield Development Authority (BDA) has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to help build Australia's newest city from the ground up.
About the Role:
As Director, Planning, Design and Sustainability, you will lead the strategic vision and delivery of Bradfield City Centre's planning, urban design, and sustainability initiatives. This pivotal role is focused on shaping Bradfield City Centre into an innovative, nationally significant hub for private investment, research, and a vibrant mixed-use community. You will work collaboratively across the Bradfield Development Authority (BDA), engaging with private partners and government agencies to ensure the city's development delivers positive social, economic, and environmental outcomes for Western Sydney.
You will be responsible for driving best practice frameworks and outcomes across planning, design, and sustainability activities, overseeing complex projects and programs, and fostering inclusive engagement with Western Sydney's diverse communities. The role requires effective coordination of resources, robust financial and risk management, and the ability to navigate complex stakeholder relationships to achieve timely, actionable results. Reporting to the Executive Director, Strategy and Development, you will play a key part in delivering one of Australia's most ambitious urban development projects.
For more information read the full Role Description: Director Planning Design and Sustainability BDA
About you
You are a strategic thinker and problem solver, with extensive experience in leading complex planning, design, and sustainability projects within high-profile precinct development contexts. Your background includes senior-level leadership in the public and/or private sectors, where you have delivered positive social, economic, and environmental outcomes. You hold tertiary qualifications in a relevant discipline and are adept at stakeholder engagement, team leadership, and fostering collaborative environments to achieve long-term development goals.
Your approach is ethical, professional, and inclusive, modelling integrity and promoting a culture of excellence. You communicate effectively with diverse audiences, influence and negotiate to achieve consensus, and manage change with confidence. You thrive in dynamic environments, anticipate and mitigate risks, and are committed to delivering results through efficient resource management and quality outcomes. Your leadership inspires direction and purpose, supporting the development and capability of your team while driving innovation and continuous improvement.
Essential requirements
Tertiary qualifications in a related discipline (planning, design, sustainability, economics, place making/management or a related discipline).
Demonstrated experience at a senior level in leading complex planning, design and/or sustainability related projects and/or programs in a high-profile precinct development context.
Demonstrated expertise in stakeholder engagement, team leadership and fostering collaborative environments to achieve results in longer term precinct development.
About us
This is your opportunity to join a bold, fast-paced organisation where you'll see the tangible impact of your work, be part of a passionate and high-performing team, and leave behind a legacy that goes beyond commercial success - one that reshapes communities and redefines what's possible for Western Sydney.
The Bradfield Development Authority (BDA) is part of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI). DPHI improves the liveability and prosperity of NSW. To achieve this, we: create vibrant, productive spaces and precincts; manage lands, assets and property effectively and deliver affordable and diverse housing. We strive to be a high-performing, world-class public service organisation that celebrates and reflects the full diversity of the community we serve and builds the cultural capability of our department to improve outcomes with and for Aboriginal people, communities and entities.
To Apply
If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.
Applications close on Sunday February 1st 2026, at 11:55pm
Should you require further information about the role please contact Alex Underwood, A/ Talent Acquisition Partner via email at
A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.
Looking for more information or assistance in applying?
We encourage and support applications from people with disability. Please reach out to us to discuss any accommodations or adjustments that may be needed during the recruitment process, ensuring that you have every opportunity to showcase your talent, skills, and potential. Contact the Talent Team via or HR Support, option 3, DPHI People Advisory, option 1 and reference 'Request an Adjustment - Job Title and Reference Number'.
If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander check out Our Mob on Country to see the work we do and get assistance in applying.