Planning Team Leader

Planning Team Leader

Are you an experienced planner ready to step into a leadership role and help shape the future of a growing regional community? 

Swan Hill Rural City Council is seeking a Planning Team Leader to lead our Planning Team and help guide the future growth and development of the municipality. This is an exciting opportunity to combine your planning expertise with leadership. You will lead a small team, provide expert planning advice, oversee complex applications and development proposals, and work with a range of stakeholders to deliver positive planning outcomes for the community.

Why Swan Hill?

At Swan Hill Rural City Council, you will be a part of a supportive organisation that values collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement. You will have the opportunity to grow your career, contribute to meaningful projects and make a real impact in the community.

Beyond the role itself, Swan Hill offers an enviable lifestyle with affordable living, short commutes, a welcoming community and the Murray River right on your doorstep. It's a place where you can build a rewarding career without sacrificing work-life balance. Whether you are looking for a tree change, a leadership opportunity, or simply a great place to live and work, Swan Hill offers the best of both worlds. Find out more about living in Swan Hill at www.dreamswanhill.com.au and explore the Swan Hill Resident Guide.

What you will be doing

• Lead and support a team of planning professionals.
• Oversee the assessment of planning permit applications and development proposals.
• Provide planning advice to residents, developers, Councillors and internal stakeholders.
• Prepare reports and recommendations for Council and senior management.
• Represent Council at community meetings, Planning Panels and VCAT.
• Contribute to planning scheme amendments and policy development.
• Identify opportunities to improve planning processes and service delivery.

About you

You are a confident and approachable planner who enjoys working with people and finding practical solutions.

You will bring:

• Qualifications in Urban and/or Regional Planning or equivalent with five years relevant experience.
• Strong experience in statutory planning.
• Sound knowledge of Victorian planning legislation and processes.
• Leadership experience, including mentoring and supporting staff.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and make sound decisions.
• A current Victorian Driver Licence.

A National Police Check will be conducted on the preferred applicant.

Why join us?

At Swan Hill Rural City Council, you will have the chance to do meaningful work while enjoying the benefits of regional living. We offer:

• Permanent Full-Time role with genuine work-life balance
• Salary of approximately $104,128 per annum. Super is paid at 15%
• 12 Rostered Days Off (RDO) per year
• Four weeks annual leave + 17.5 % leave loading
• 12 days personal (sick/carer's) leave
• Paid parental and adoption leave
• Long service leave (pro-rata after 7 years)
• Flexible work arrangements, including work from home, and flexible hours depending on role
• Additional compassionate leave
• Option to purchase additional leave
• Subsidised gym memberships
• Active social club

Ready to make your mark?

If you're looking for a leadership role where you can grow your career, support a great team and help shape the future of our community, we would love to hear from you.

Applications close: 12 noon on Tuesday, 15 September 2026.

How to Apply

• Click Apply Now.
• Upload your Cover Letter, Resume and Statement Addressing Key Selection Criteria. Note: Applications that do not address the key selection criteria may not be considered.
• Complete the online application form.
• Click Submit to finalise your application.

Need Assistance?

For questions about the role or application process, contact the Human Resources team at hr@swanhill.vic.gov.au or 5036 2333.