Planning Officer

About the role

We have an opportunity for a Planning Officer to join the Statutory Planning team on a permanent fulltime basis to contribute to the residential, commercial and industrial developments within the City of Swan. The position is responsible for the assessment of development and subdivision applications, as well as delivering outstanding frontline customer service to the public over the phone or in person at the planning counter. The position may include opportunities for scheme amendment, structure plan and policy work in addition to the core responsibilities of the position.

We are looking for someone with a methodical approach to work across a diverse range of planning matters and issues and assist with research, consultation and analysis, and developing appropriate solutions for implementation through the City's Local Planning Scheme or Council Policy.

Key Accountabilities include, but are not limited to;

• Undertake the assessment of planning applications
• Prepare reports and recommendations on applications to Council
• Ensure that the assessment and processing of applications is in accordance with the relevant legislation, regulations, council policies and statutory timeframes
• Provide telephone, counter and on-site assistance to customer enquiries and coordinate community consultation accordingly
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships across the organisation, liaising with internal departments to exchange information and advice
• Assist and support the Manager and Coordinator in the day-to-day management and operations of the planning functions

About you

The successful candidate will have the following:

• Tertiary qualification in Urban and Regional Planning or related field
• Post graduate qualifications in Urban and Regional Planning will be highly regarded
• Eligibility for membership with the Planning Institute of Australia
• Demonstrated experience in a similar planning position
• Advanced knowledge of Town Planning practice, principles and legislation
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and associated applications
• Advanced communication skills including the ability to resolve conflict, negotiate and write concise reports and recommendations
• Current 'C' class drivers' licence
• A satisfactory National Police Certificate

For more information about the role please refer to the position description.

About working with us

The salary for this position will be from $94, $112,499.22 per annum, depending on the skills and experience of the successful applicant.

You will also enjoy benefits including

• Flexibility to balance work and life through supported work from home and a 19-day month
• Excellent leave entitlements e.g. purchase additional leave, Local Government public holiday
• Generous Superannuation contributions up to a total combined 17%
• Comprehensive employee wellness program
• Generous study assistance (terms and conditions apply)
• Free parking options available
• Travelsmart allowance to support public transport use or cycling to work

About the City

The City of Swan, located north east of Perth, is the largest local government by land size in the Perth metropolitan area, and has one of the fastest growing populations.

The City covers an area of 1,042 square kilometres, equivalent to almost 20 per cent of the Perth metropolitan area. A beautifully diverse expanse of land, the City is rich in natural assets, including the iconic Swan River and internationally renowned Swan Valley viticulture region established in 1829.

Our location, services and facilities make the City an attractive place to live. The population across our 42 suburbs stands at 168,334 in 2023, but is set to reach 300,000 by 2050.

The Whadjuk people of the Noongar Nation have been the traditional custodians of the land for more than 40,000 years. The Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River) holds enormous cultural significance for the Noongar people. The City is also rich in European history, and our community is a melting pot of multiculturalism, with one in three people being born overseas and one in five speaking a language other than English at home. Our ideal location, significant history, diverse community and strong economy ensures a positive future for the City of Swan, full of opportunity.

Our purpose at the City is to improve the quality of life for all of the people who live in, work in and visit the City of Swan by delivering our vision of 'one city, diverse people, culture and places' through shared values of respect, excellence, accountability and leadership.

At the City of Swan we are committed to recruiting and retaining the right people and creating a great place to work.  We offer our employees real careers, real impact, and real rewards.

We welcome people with diverse skills, experiences, perspectives and backgrounds and encourage applications from Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander peoples, and individuals who may identify as LGBTIQ+, with disability, a culturally and linguistically diverse background, and people of all ages.

For a confidential discussion, please contact John Elliot directly on

For queries regarding the application process, please contact our friendly People Services team on

To apply please submit a cover letter that outlines your qualifications and experience and why you would be a good fit for this role, and a resume via the link.

Closing Date: Monday, 27October 2025 at 11pm AWST

The City of Swan reserves the right to commence shortlisting and interviews earlier than the closing date. The City also reserves the right to close the vacancy early therefore if you are interested in this position, please submit an application as early as possible.