Planning Assistant

About the role

Are you a motivated university student with a passion for urban and regional planning? This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in land use and transport planning within the Public Transport Authority. As a Planning Assistant, you'll contribute to small projects and pieces of work that build upon your technical knowledge and skills developed through your studies. You will assist in the delivery of land use planning programs for public transport projects across the State, gaining valuable exposure to how strategic and technical planning decisions shape Western Australia's transport network.

In this role, you'll liaise with PTA managers, consultants, local government authorities and other agencies to support effective planning outcomes. You'll also assist with reviewing surveys, studies and reports, collecting data, and preparing research and briefing materials on transport planning issues. This position offers a collaborative and learning-focused environment where you'll be encouraged to develop your professional competencies and contribute meaningfully to public transport initiatives.

The ideal candidate is currently studying towards a Bachelor Degree in Urban and Regional Planning or a related discipline, and demonstrates strong analytical, research and problem-solving skills. You will have sound communication and interpersonal abilities, be capable of working both independently and as part of a team, and possess good organisational skills to manage competing priorities. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and a commitment to safety are essential.

About You

To excel in this role, you should possess:

• Studying towards a Bachelor Degree in Urban and Regional Planning, or other relevant discipline.
• Sound communication skills (written, verbal and interpersonal) including the ability to liaise with individuals in a variety of contexts and work as a team member.
• Demonstrated analytical, research and evaluation skills.
• Good level of initiative and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to review documentation, distil key points and ideas and apply them to processes and procedures.

About Us

The Public Transport Authority's (PTA) vision is to be recognised as a leader in providing world-class public transport services and solutions. Our purpose is to provide safe, customer-focused, integrated, and efficient transport services that align with our core values.

At the PTA, we hold five core values dear: safety, respect, recognition, integrity, and sustainability. These values guide everything we do, ensuring a workplace where safety is paramount, respect is fundamental, achievements are celebrated, integrity is unwavering, and sustainability is integral to our mission.

As a fast-growing economy, Western Australia's public transport system, under the PTA, is recognised as the best in Australia and one of the most efficient, clean, and safe networks globally. Rail transport plays a vital role in our continued success and growth, exemplified by our numerous projects such as METRONET, designed to meet the public's needs and expectations. Moving millions of people requires the skill and commitment of a talented workforce, and at the PTA, we are dedicated to delivering on our vision and purpose while upholding our values every step of the way.

You can expect.

• Opportunities to grow through personal development and career pathways
• Health and Wellbeing programs including access to a free 24/7 onsite Gym
• Subsidised Corporate Apparel and Spectacles
• Supportive Team Environment
• Opportunity to join our Social Club offering savings and benefits all year round.

There is currently one fixed term opportunity available to 14 September 2026 with the possibility of renewal.

This is a pool recruitment process where suitable applicants will be placed in a pool to fill similar vacancies both fixed term and permanent that may arise within the next 12 months.

**To be eligible to work at the PTA you must be either an Australian Citizen or Australian Permanent Resident or hold a valid work visa until 14 September 2026.

The PTA is an equal opportunity employer and encourages people with disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and persons from culturally diverse backgrounds to apply.

Further Information

Please contact Rashidah MacLeod, Senior Transport and Land Use Planner on for specific information about the role.

For more information about the PTA, please visit

For technical difficulties, please contact the RAMS helpdesk at or email

How to Apply

Applicants must apply online, using the 'Apply for this job' button and this will take you to the WA Jobs board where you will need to follow the instructions listed on the advert. If not directed straight to the position, please key Position Number 37495 in the web search box.

Closing Date: 5pm (WST) on Monday 24 November 2025