About the Role This is a senior leadership position where you’ll bring both technical depth and people leadership. You’ll lead the assessment of complex development applications, provide trusted advice, and support the day-to-day direction of the Development Assessment Team—working with a high level of autonomy while partnering closely with Principal Planners and the Planning Branch leadership team. You’ll also have opportunities to step into higher-level roles and broaden your leadership impact. What You’ll Be Doing Lead the assessment of complex development applications, providing clear, confident and well-reasoned advice Prepare high-quality reports, briefs, and infrastructure agreements Mentor and support planners and para-planners, building capability and fostering a high-performing team culture Help coordinate team workflows, priorities, and continuous improvement initiatives Interpret and apply key legislation, including the Planning Act 2016, planning schemes and local laws Represent Council in meetings, forums, and presentations with stakeholders and the community Chair pre-lodgement meetings and work collaboratively with applicants, consultants and agencies to resolve issues early The Team Our Planning Team plays a key role in shaping the future of the region. We work across a broad mix of projects and stakeholders, balancing community, economic and environmental outcomes. You’ll be joining a team that values collaboration, transparency and accountability, where knowledge is shared and leadership is supported at every level. What’s On Offer Permanent full-time role based in Toowoomba CBD Salary: $116,916.83 – $123,940.72 per annum (gross) 17.5% annual leave loading up to 12.65% superannuation Plus a great range of benefits: Flexible work options including banked leave Ongoing professional development and leadership training Salary sacrificing options Corporate health insurance discounts Fitness Passport access Active social club Employee Assistance Program (24/7 confidential support) Health and wellbeing initiatives A strong safety culture – home safe every day About You You’re an experienced planning professional who combines technical expertise, sound judgement and people leadership. Your background includes: A degree in Urban/Town Planning (PIA recognised) Around 8 years’ experience in development assessment or a related field A current unrestricted ‘C’ Class Driver’s Licence You bring: Strong capability in assessing complex development applications A deep understanding of planning legislation and frameworks Confidence working as a senior member of a multidisciplinary team Proven ability to mentor, coach and support others Excellent stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills The ability to balance multiple priorities and make sound decisions under pressure And most importantly: You’re someone who leads with integrity, values teamwork, and is committed to delivering high-quality outcomes for the community. Why Join Us? At Toowoomba Regional Council, your work has real impact. You’ll help shape how communities grow, contribute to meaningful development outcomes, and be part of a team that supports your continued growth as a leader. Apply now and help shape what’s next for the Toowoomba Region. For full details of this position, please ensure you download the Position Description, which provides the position success criteria. Please provide your current Resume and a 2 page document addressing each of the To apply, please send us: Your current resume A short document (max 2 pages) that explains how you meet the key requirements listed in the Position Description. For each requirement: Use a heading so it’s clear which one you’re talking about. Give examples from your own experience –tell us what you did, how you did it, and what happened as a result. Important: If you don’t respond to each key requirement, your application might not be considered. The preferred candidate will be required to undertake a Criminal History Check and a pre-employment medical assessment to assess their ability to perform the genuine occupational requirements of the position. Visit our website for information on how to apply for jobs at Toowoomba Regional Council. Applicants are encouraged to apply online.
