Strategic Planner

Strategic Planner

Be the strategic force shaping the future of our communities through smart planning, informed decisions, and effective collaboration.

Behind every successful land use strategy is a skilled planner who understands the big picture, navigates complex policy environments, and brings clarity and insight to every project. At Wingecarribee Shire Council that could be you

We're seeking an experienced Strategic Planner to lead and manage a range of strategic land use and planning policy initiatives. In this pivotal role, you'll drive place-based planning, coordinate amendments to planning frameworks, and foster inclusive engagement with communities and stakeholders. Your strategic thinking and leadership will ensure planning policies support sustainable, liveable environments that balance growth, heritage, and transport opportunities.

What you'll do

Reporting to the Coordinator Strategy and Place, you will work collaboratively with internal teams, stakeholders, and the broader community to deliver planning outcomes that support a high-quality natural and built environment, celebrate valued heritage, and promote liveable, inclusive, and sustainable places. This role offers the chance to make a real impact through long-term planning that balances growth, sustainability, and community needs, while gaining experience in complex policy development and innovative urban strategies.

What you'll bring

1. Degree in Town Planning, Urban and Regional Planning, Science, Urban Design, Architecture or equivalent discipline.
2. Demonstrated technical knowledge and experience in strategic land use planning and the application of relevant environmental and planning legislation and regulations with the ability to identify community and stakeholder requirements to guide strategy, policy, plans and actions.
3. Demonstrated experience in conducting analysis and attending sites subject to planning proposals and place-based planning projects to critically analyse local opportunities and constraints, as well as assess broader contexts of planning frameworks to inform an objective opinion in the assessment of proposals.
4. Demonstrated ability to be resilient to work pressures and demands and has analytical and problem-solving skills including the ability to critically analyse issues and develop and implement appropriate solutions. Demonstrated time management skills and the ability to be proactive in guiding priority outcomes and responding efficiently to changing circumstances with flexibility.
5. Demonstrated ability to prepare and deliver high quality, coherent and professional plans and reports on strategic planning matters to a wide audience. Demonstrated experience to engage and influence through the utilisation of clear, concise and accurate communication style.
6. Demonstrated ability in building professional relationships within the development industry and the community to promote Council as an efficient and effective operator in the market and the ability to demonstrate professional acumen in all business dealings with both internal and external clients of Council.
7. Demonstrated creative and critical thinking techniques to shape the development and implementation of place-based plans and strategies of which appropriately respond to relevant land-use planning strategies, strategic context, trends, constraints and opportunities, to identify a clear vision and priority actions.
8. Demonstrated communication skills to communicate clearly, actively listen and provide customer-focused services. Facilitates meaningful engagement with both internal and external stakeholders to inform evidence-based decision making.
9. Hold a current Drivers Licence (Class C)

Why Wingecarribee?

Because here, strategic planning isn't just about managing growth, it's about shaping a future that reflects our community's values, priorities, and unique identity.

We're an organisation with a clear vision for sustainable, place-based development, balancing liveability, environmental protection, and heritage with the evolving needs of our residents. As a Strategic Planner, you'll be at the centre of this vision, contributing to high impact land use strategies, policy reforms, and long-term planning that guides how our Shire grows and thrives.

At Wingecarribee Shire Council, our values, Resilience, Empathy, Sustainability, Pride, Efficiency, Courage, and Teamwork aren't just principles, they're how we show up for each other and our community every day. If you're passionate about making a real difference, come join us in shaping a thriving future for all who call Wingecarribee home

A Great Place to Live & Work

With a population of over 50,000, Wingecarribee offers a balanced lifestyle, blending vibrant townships with green open spaces. We are a place where families thrive, businesses grow, and individuals can enjoy a strong sense of community. Midway between Sydney, Canberra, and Wollongong, our Shire provides the perfect mix of regional charm and modern amenities.

Wingecarribee Shire is at the heart of the Southern Highlands of NSW, a region renowned for its natural beauty, strong community connections, and thriving local economy. As a council, we are committed to building a sustainable, inclusive, and innovative future, ensuring our residents enjoy a high quality of life while preserving the unique character of our Shire.

What's in it for you?

• Attractive salary package + 12% superannuation
• 35-hour week + VDO every 19 days
• Flexible hybrid work options (WFH Opportunities)
• Career development & learning support – Tertiary assistance available
• Wellbeing programs + Fitness Passport
• Community & social engagement – Enjoy opportunities to participate in local events, team-building activities, and community initiatives that bring our staff and residents together.
• Recognition through our annual awards ceremony celebrating and rewarding staff achievements

Apply now

Apply now to become the strategic force shaping sustainable growth, liveable communities at Wingecarribee Shire Council.

Submit the following documents:

• Your Resume – showcasing your skills & experience.
• Relevant Certifications – qualifications and licenses
• Responses to the Essential Criteria – explain how your expertise aligns with the essential requirements of the role as outlined in the position description attached.

Have questions?

• Contact Rachel Murray - Coordinator Strategy and Place on 02 4868 0714.

Applications close: 8 September 2025 – don't miss this opportunity.

Wingecarribee Shire Council is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.