Trainee Planner

Job No: WASC571

Location: Coonabarabran

Department: Planning and Regulation

Reports to: Manager Planning and Regulation

Salary Range: $1,075 - $1,227 per 35 hour week + superannuation

Are you passionate about shaping the future of our towns and communities? Do you have a keen interest in urban development, environmental management, or local government planning?

If you're ready to launch your career while studying towards a formal qualification, this is the opportunity you've been waiting for. As a Trainee Planner, you'll be part of a supportive and collaborative Planning and Development team committed to mentoring and growing the next generation of planning professionals.

In this role, you'll assist with a wide range of planning activities, gaining exposure to both statutory and strategic planning processes. From conducting preliminary assessments of development applications to helping prepare planning reports and supporting community consultation efforts, your work will directly contribute to shaping sustainable and livable communities. As your confidence and knowledge grow, so too will your responsibilities—providing a clear and structured pathway into a rewarding planning career.

We're looking for someone who is genuinely curious, motivated, and eager to learn. Whether you've just finished Year 12, or you're already working and ready to upskill, you'll bring strong communication skills, a good eye for detail, and a commitment to completing a relevant planning qualification (such as the Diploma of Local Government (Planning)). A basic understanding of local government planning processes, some office or customer service experience, and comfort using digital tools like Microsoft Office or GIS will be highly regarded.

This is more than just a job—it's a professional development journey. You'll be supported every step of the way with mentoring, practical on-the-job experience, and the chance to be part of a team that values learning, inclusion, and public service. If you're ready to contribute to meaningful work while building the foundations of a long-term planning career, we encourage you to apply. Your future in planning starts here.

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Please click here to view the information package.

This position is located in the beautiful town of Coonabarabran, known as the Astronomy Capital of Australia, which is midway between Melbourne and Brisbane and is known for its beautiful landscape and stunning night skies. The town has medical services, excellent schools, a variety of sporting and social clubs and a thriving tourism Industry. With the nearby Warrumbungle National Park, which is also Australia's first Dark Sky Park, there is plenty to do and explore whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation.

Selection criteria include:

Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) or Year 10 plus at least two years in the workforce

Interest in town planning, urban development, or environmental management.

Commitment to completing a relevant tertiary qualification in planning (Diploma of Local Government (Planning).

Basic understanding of the role of local government in planning and development.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team.

Good organisational and time management skills.

Willingness to learn and receive feedback.

Ability to work as part of a team and follow instructions

Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) and ability to work with other software including the NSW Planning Portal and GIS mapping systems.

Class C driver's licence (P plates minimum).

It would be helpful if you have prior work or volunteer experience in an office, local government, or customer service environment, awareness of relevant planning legislation (e.g. Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979) and familiarity with mapping tools or spatial systems (e.g. GIS) would be an advantage.

Benefits of working for Council

Council are committed to creating a positive working environment and offer a range of benefits for staff, including

Above award wages

Support for training and professional development, with study time available during work hours

Great leave opportunities

o 1 RDO every 4 weeks

o Carer's leave

o 3 weeks sick leave per year including up to 2 days health and wellbeing leave each year subject to eligibility

Weekly pay cycle

Salary Packaging options to maximise your take-home pay

Wellness – we want you to be at your best self so you and your immediate family members have access to our employee assistance program with TELUS Health One to help support you through all life's challenges

Generous uniform allowance and PPE provided

Free annual flu vaccinations and bi-annual skin cancer checks available

About Warrumbungle Shire Council

Warrumbungle Shire is strategically positioned on the Newell Highway, a short drive from Tamworth, Mudgee and Dubbo, and just over 3 hours from Newcastle, making Warrumbungle Shire a great place to live and work. Covering an area of more than 12,000km², and with a population of nearly 10,000, Warrumbungle Shire Council is one of the larger Local Government Areas in Central West NSW, home to the townships of Coonabarabran, Coolah, Dunedoo, Binnaway, Baradine and Mendooran.

With a rich history and stunning landscapes including spectacular mountain ranges, waterfalls, ancient sandstone caves, gorges, and beautiful plains, our scenic location amongst friendly country communities provides an ideal setting for those looking to balance a country lifestyle and career.

At Warrumbungle Shire Council we offer a broad variety of jobs with a range of benefits and career development opportunities within Local Government. The guiding principles of honesty, integrity, fairness and compassion form the spirit of the team along with respect, transparency, passion, trust and opportunity is how Warrumbungle Shire Council strengthens its working environment to deliver on the aspirations of our community. Council is proud to be an equal opportunity and child safe employer with a commitment to our staff and our vision is Excellence in Local Government.

You will receive an email acknowledgement to confirm receipt of your application. You will receive email notifications regarding the status of your application. It is important that you regularly check your email to ensure you do not miss any notifications from Council. It is also recommended that you check your spam or junk folder and consider adding to your email address book to ensure you do not miss any correspondence in regard to your application.

Applications close at 11.00 pm Sunday 12 October 2025.

For enquiries, please contact Human Resources on

Applicants should note that Criminal History Checks, as well as alcohol and drug testing, are conditions of employment.