Planning Officer – Local Government | 6‑Month Contract + Extension Potential
Your new company
An exciting opportunity is available for an experienced Planning Officer to join a highly supportive local government team in the stunning FNQ region. You’ll be working within a friendly, tight-knit environment and planning team on a 6-month temporary basis. This is a fantastic chance for a planner with statutory experience to contribute to meaningful local development outcomes while enjoying a welcoming and community-focused workplace.
Your new role
In this role, you will:
1. Assess and prepare reports on Development Applications (DAs).
2. Provide accurate, professional advice to internal teams, the public, and external stakeholders.
3. Respond to general and statutory planning enquiries, both at the counter and over the phone.
4. Prepare planning correspondence, conditions of approval and supporting documentation.
5. Support the Team Leader Planning with statutory functions and compliance tasks.
6. Maintain strong working relationships with councillors, government agencies, developers, and the community.
7. Work with internal systems, including Authority and mapping tools (support provided).
8. Participate in site visits across the FNQ region
9. Provide excellent customer service and contribute positively to the Planning & Environment team.
What you'll need to succeed
To succeed in this role, you will bring:
10. Degree or postgraduate qualifications in Town Planning or a related field.
11. Demonstrated experience in a Planning Officer or similar statutory role.
12. Strong knowledge of planning legislation, including the Planning Act 2016, Planning Regulation 2017, Queensland Development Code, and Building Act.
13. Strong investigation, evidence-gathering and research skills.
14. Excellent written and verbal communication, including report writing and stakeholder liaison.
15. Proven customer service capability and ability to manage public enquiries professionally.
16. Ability to follow procedures, work independently and meet legislative timeframes.
17. High-level interpersonal, negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
18. Current C Class driver’s licence and White Card (or ability to obtain).
19. Competence with computers and willingness to learn new systems such as Authority.
The ideal candidate will also bring desirable qualifications and skills such as a Diploma of Local Government Planning or higher, or a Certificate IV in Government (Statutory Compliance) or similar.
What you'll get in return
In return, you will gain a 6month full-time contract with the potential of extension, working for a Local Government Department based in FNQ, paying an attractive hourly rate + Super.
20. Supportive, friendly and close-knit planning team.
21. Great office environment with full departmental introductions to help new starters settle in.
22. Opportunity to contribute to meaningful regional planning outcomes.
23. Stunning FNQ location with site visits
24. Flexible work options after onboarding
25. Chance to develop new skills and work with experienced planners and mapping specialists
What you need to do now
If you’re interested in this role, click ‘apply now’ or, for more information, please contact Grace Dunn at Hays on 07 4049 2*** or email **********@hays.com.au#2982442