Together we shape thriving communities, public spaces, places and economies.

• Join the Hunter and Northern Region team of the Local Planning and Council Support division
• 2 x Temporary full- time opportunities until 31 January 2026 and 22 July 2026 (extension possible)
• Office locations Newcastle, Tamworth, Port Macquarie, Ballina or Grafton (other locations by negotiation)
• Flexible work arrangements supported
• Salary relative to experience and ranges from $112,479 to $126,745 + super

At the heart of the New South Wales (NSW) planning system, the Planning Group takes centre stage. Driven by the NSW Government’s unwavering commitment to tackle the critical housing issue, we provide essential support and strategic guidance. The Planning Land Use Strategy, Housing and Infrastructure (PLUSHI) team are the driving force behind the Department's strategic planning, policy, rezoning, and infrastructure projects, all aimed at making New South Wales a better place to live. 

The role

As a Planning Officer within the Hunter and Northern Region in the Local Planning and Council Support branch, you will play a crucial role in implementing strategic planning and policy initiatives that shape the future of NSW communities. You will work closely with local government and other government agencies to deliver land rezonings across NSW. You will contribute to housing delivery, economic development, and infrastructure planning to ensure a resilient and liveable NSW.

You will assist with the implementation of strategic planning projects, regional plans and local strategies through the assessment of planning proposals and other statutory referrals to ensure they meet statutory obligations and Government policy.  The role provides advice and support to key internal and external stakeholders to resolve issues and achieve practical solutions and positive outcomes.

You will respond to internal and external stakeholder enquiries and provide information and advice on current planning matters to deliver quality service and consistent understanding and application of policies and practices. You will be required to prepare reports, briefing notes, letters and other correspondence to support decision making and to respond to stakeholder requests.

Essential Requirements

• Demonstrated knowledge of relevant planning and environmental legislation and processes
• Tertiary degree qualification or other equivalent qualification
• Willingness to travel and Class C Driver’s Licence for regional positions

About you

You will ideally have demonstrated knowledge of relevant planning processes, environmental legislation and experience in strategic or development land use planning.  You will have strong stakeholder engagement abilities and strong analytical and problem-solving skills to evaluate data and inform decision-making.

You will have the ability to manage multiple tasks with competing timeframes.

For more information read the full Role Description: Planning Officer (Local Planning and Council Support)

What’s in it for me?

Join our team for a fantastic culture with dynamic collaboration and genuine long-term career support. We offer flexibility in work arrangements, diverse and fulfilling assignments, and prioritise work/life balance and wellbeing with initiatives like flex leave and access to support programs. Additionally, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to succeed.

About us

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) improves the liveability and prosperity of NSW. To achieve this, we: create vibrant, productive spaces and precincts; manage lands, assets and property effectively and deliver affordable and diverse housing. We strive to be a high-performing, world-class public service organisation that celebrates and reflects the full diversity of the community we serve and builds the cultural capability of our department to improve outcomes with and for Aboriginal people, communities and entities. 

We are an inclusive and accessible workplace, where your individual contributions are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to feel a sense of connection and belonging. DPHI supports various employee affinity groups, practices flexible working, offers job share and workplace adjustments.

Join us

If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Applications close 11.55pm on Sunday 27 July 2025.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Paul Garnett, Manager Local Planning and Council Support, Hunter & Northern Region via paul.a.garnett@dpie.nsw.gov.au or on 0407 972 720

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

Please note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, or hold a valid Australian working Visa for the duration of the appointment. 

We encourage and support applications from people with disability. Please reach out to us to discuss any accommodations or adjustments that may be needed during the recruitment process, ensuring that you have every opportunity to showcase your talent, skills, and potential. Contact the Talent Team via talent.acquisition@dpie.nsw.gov.au or (02) 63637676​ - HR Support, option 3, DPHI People Advisory, option 1 and reference 'Request an Adjustment - Job Title and Reference Number'.

Check out our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for the role or contact our Aboriginal Career pathways team for a yarn.