Principal Strategic Planner

• Full time permanent | Wonthaggi | Flexible work arrangements
• Exciting opportunity to advocate for the local community
• $107, 815 per annum plus superannuation

ABOUT THE ROLE:

We're seeking a Principal Strategic Planner to join our passionate team at Bass Coast Shire Council. In this leadership role, you will drive the development and delivery of complex strategic planning projects, structure plans, and planning scheme amendments that shape the region's future.

You'll provide expert technical advice, manage multidisciplinary projects, and represent Council in a range of forums, from Planning Panels Victoria to community consultations.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading high-quality strategic planning projects and initiatives.
• Preparing council reports, panel submissions, and policy responses.
• Managing consultants and securing external funding through grants.
• Designing and delivering community engagement aligned with IAP2 principles.
• Mentoring team members and building strong stakeholder relationships.

Join us and be part of something bigger, where your work delivers real outcomes for the community.

A BIT ABOUT YOU:

You're a highly skilled and motivated strategic planner with a proven track record in delivering planning projects from start to finish. You're passionate about creating sustainable, resilient communities and confident in engaging with a wide range of stakeholders from government agencies to local residents.

With strong knowledge of planning legislation and a deep understanding of the strategic planning landscape in Victoria, you bring a collaborative, customer-focused approach to everything you do.

You'll also bring:

• Extensive experience in strategic and statutory planning, ideally within local government.
• Strong project management skills, including consultant oversight and budget management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including report writing and public presentations.
• A sound understanding of climate-conscious planning principles.
• A commitment to mentoring and supporting team growth.
• Familiarity with the Bass Coast Towards 2030 vision and Council Plan (desirable).

HOW TO APPLY:

For more details on this position, please download the Position Description by clicking 'Apply'. Alternatively, you can contact Austin Cram, Coordinator Strategic Planning on

To apply, please click 'Apply' and submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your interest and suitability for the role.

Applications close:
Midnight, Wednesday 17 September 2025.

WHY BASS COAST SHIRE COUNCIL:

From surfing and cycling to fine dining and everything in between, Bass Coast offers the perfect blend of rural, residential, and holiday living - set against breathtaking backdrops of beaches, bushland, and rolling hills. Less than two hours from Melbourne by car, Bass Coast Shire is one of Victoria's fastest-growing regions, providing an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're seeking a sea change or looking for a flexible work environment, Bass Coast Shire Council could offer the perfect employment opportunity to help you achieve your ideal work-life balance.

Bass Coast Shire Council is recognised as a leader in local government, having designed and implemented cutting-edge workplace policies that rank among the most progressive in the state. We've spearheaded discussions around gender equality and continue to champion initiatives that foster an inclusive and supportive workplace culture. Additionally, we have committed to doing our part in the global fight against climate change, collaborating with both the community and our employees to drive meaningful action.

Bass Coast Shire Council consistently exceeds service excellence goals and is now integrating new technologies and systems to enhance our already high standards of service delivery. We are a Council that thrives on innovation, making this an exciting time to join us and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our workforce

Reasons why we love working at Bass Coast Shire Council:

• At Bass Coast Council, we celebrate diversity and have made it a top priority for all staff to feel safe and welcome regardless of race, religion, gender, disability, age or sexual orientation. We value inclusivity and a positive workplace culture.
• Flexible working arrangements; including flexible start and finish times and a hybrid working model. We encourage our employees to think about their work-life balance and what will help them flourish.
• We encourage open discussions with People Leaders and the People & Culture team to talk about any individual modifications or adjustments that may be required, enabling your on-going success in the role. Reach out to for confidential support to ensure an equitable, barrier-free application process.
• Regular and proactive discussions on performance development, focusing on shared expectations, training opportunities, and career advancement. What can we do to help you achieve?
• Opportunities to experience other roles in the business with our 'Expression of Interest' process
• Options to purchase additional annual leave in advance of any extended trips or planned time off.

Child Safety Commitment

We support and respect all children, as well as our staff, contractors, and volunteers. Our organisation is committed to preventing child abuse by identifying risks early and intervening to address these risks. We are committed to the safety of all children, particularly those from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, children who are culturally and linguistically diverse, and those with varying needs and/or disabilities.