Senior Statutory Planner

Posted: 09/10/2025

Closing Date: 26/10/2025

Salary: $98, $108,798.00

Job Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Head Office - Civic Building, Torquay

Job Category: Community Services & Development

• Two Opportunities – 1 x Permanent Full-Time, 1 x Temporary Full-Time
• $98,265 – $105,798 pa pro-rata (plus 12% super and annual pay increases)
• Flexible working arrangements available including flexitime, WFH and RDOs

Who we are

There are not many places in Australia quite like Surf Coast Shire, where you can surf at world-class locations like Bells Beach Djarrak, drive along the scenic coast on the Great Ocean Road, or explore the many waterfalls set in tranquil rainforests. The region is a major Victorian tourism destination, and not just because of the coast; it is also thanks to vibrant hinterland towns, a variety of world-class events, colourful community markets, ranges of family activities, and more.

Surf Coast Shire spans Traditional Lands of the Wadawurrung People and the Gulidjan and Gadubanud Peoples of the Eastern Maar Nation.

Surf Coast Shire Council delivers services from Lorne to Winchelsea to Torquay and all of the communities in-between, helping to make the region a destination to live, work and play.

We work together, we see opportunity, we do what we say, and we make a difference.

Your new career

The Statutory Planning Department is currently seeking two Senior Statutory Planners to join a dynamic team which shapes use and development across urban, rural and coastal settings of the Surf Coast Shire.

Our team is responsible for:

• assessing applications for use and development planning permits
• assessing applications for the subdivision of land
• providing advice to the community on town planning matters

We currently have two opportunities - one permanent full-time position and one temporary full-time contract.

What you will bring to the role

You are a dedicated planning professional who can deliver professional advice against the requirements of the Surf Coast Planning Scheme, relevant legislation and strategic policy. With your customer-first mindset, you communicate with clarity and care and are motivated by the opportunity to make a positive impact through your work.

To be successful in this role you will bring:

• a passion for delivering exceptional customer service
• a collaborative and supportive approach to teamwork
• strong and well-developed negotiation skills
• the drive to contribute to a positive, connected and thriving community

Key selection criteria

Mandatory qualifications, experience and requirements

• Tertiary qualification in Town Planning or equivalent experience.
• Experience in Town Planning.
• A good understanding of town planning, environmental issues and associated statues.
• Well-developed communication skills.
• A customer focused approach.
• A current Working With Children Check
• You have the permanent right to live and work in Australia
• Police Check results that are suitable for this position (will be arranged by Surf Coast Shire Council).
  
  A complete international criminal history check is required if the person has worked or lived overseas for any period of time OR a complete national criminal history check is required if the person has only ever worked in Australia.

What you'll love working with us

Council embraces diversity and social inclusion and encourages applications from skilled people from all walks of life.

We recognise that our employees play a vital role in creating an innovative, safe, respectful and supportive workplace, living our values and delivering exceptional services to our thriving community. Our shire spans the Traditional Lands of the Wadawurrung People and the Gulidjan and Gadabanud Peoples of the Eastern Maar Nation. Council is committed to providing a workplace culture of equity, inclusion and diversity that eliminates all forms of discrimination, harassment and bullying.

There are numerous social activities throughout the year available as well as the benefits of:

• Flexible working arrangements including working from home and flexi time options, RDOs
• Employee Assistance Program and award-winning staff wellbeing program
• Career development and learning opportunities, we help our people grow
• Purchase of additional annual leave
• Free onsite parking
• Leave loading.

For more information

If you believe you have the knowledge, skills and experience to fulfil this role and would like further information, please contact Susan Wlodarczyk on

How to apply

Applications are to be in Word or PDF format and should include a:

• cover letter including your statement addressing the selection criteria
• copy of your resume.

Please note that only applications with a statement addressing the selection criteria will be considered for this position.

Simply complete the application process and we'll be in touch with you shortly regarding your application.

Applications close at 11.59pm Sunday 26 October 2025

Surf Coast Shire Council is an equal opportunity and child safe employer.