Principal Planning Officer
Permanent Full Time | QLGIA (Stream A) Level 6
Location: Yeppoon | Reports to: Coordinator Development Assessment
Are you ready to shape the future of our region? We're seeking a Principal Planning Officer to join our Planning and Development team and provide high-level planning and development assessment services that make a real impact on our community.
As a principal officer within the Development Assessment Team, you'll provide expert advice on complex planning matters, mentor a small team of professionals, and ensure development aligns with Council's planning scheme and strategic objectives.
About Us
Livingstone Shire sits along the stunning Capricorn Coast, covering 11,776 square kilometres and home to nearly 41,000 residents. Since its formation in 2013, Council has grown into a values-driven organisation with around 350 staff committed to delivering for our community.
Our region is known for its relaxed coastal lifestyle, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant community spirit. It's a place where connection matters, and where nature and opportunity live side by side.
Council's culture is built on Accountability, Teamwork, Community, Potential, and Positivity; values that guide how we work and how we lead.
Our vision is to be A prosperous region for families, business, and future generations. We are committed to creating a vibrant, resilient, and inclusive community where people thrive, nature is protected, and innovation drives progress.
Our work is guided by four strategic pillars:
1. Growth to Fund Service Delivery - Strategic investments and development to create sustainable revenue streams that support quality community services.
2. Services That Meet Customer Expectations - Responsive, accessible, and high-quality services that address the evolving needs of residents and businesses.
3. Efficiency in Delivery - Streamlined processes, elimination of red tape, and smart resource allocation to maximise value for ratepayers and opportunity for Business diversity and growth.
4. Protecting Our Natural Resources - Creating opportunity to protect and value Livingstone's natural resources for future generations, whilst encouraging sustainable consumption of resources across our region.
What You'll Do:
* Supervise, guide, and support a high-performing team of planning professionals.
* Assess and determine complex development applications and compliance matters.
* Provide expert technical advice to Council, developers, consultants, and the community.
* Represent Council in meetings, workshops, and Planning & Environment Court proceedings.
* Contribute to planning policy development, process improvements, and strategic initiatives.
* Champion Council's values and foster a safe, inclusive, and customer-focused culture.
What We're Looking For:
* Tertiary qualification in Urban and Regional Planning or related discipline.
* Demonstrated experience in statutory planning and development assessment.
* Strong knowledge of Queensland planning legislation and local government planning functions.
* Excellent communication skills with the ability to prepare professional reports and present confidently.
* Digital literacy across planning systems, GIS, and Microsoft Office Suite.
* Membership with the Planning Institute of Australia and a current driver's licence.
Benefits:
We believe that when you feel supported, you do your best work. Here's what you can look forward to:
* Annual Salary – Between $101,569 and $108,291 per annum (QLGIA (Stream A) Level 6.1 to 6.3 including Locality Allowance) — plus the satisfaction of knowing your work makes a real impact across Council and for the community
* Fortnightly RDOs—because balance matters.
* 12% superannuation—we're invested in your future.
* Salary packaging options—to help you make the most of your earnings.
* A values-driven culture where safety, innovation, and continuous improvement are more than just words—they're how we work, every day.
If you are ready to submit your application, please address the selection criteria on the recruitment portal and supply a copy of your resume, qualifications/ licences.
Applications close Monday, 8 December 2025 at midnight (AEST).
Livingstone Shire Council is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.