SHAPE WHAT'S NEXT FOR THE TOOWOOMBA REGION Ready to step into a role where your expertise genuinely influences how a region grows? Toowoomba Regional Council is looking for an experienced Lead Senior Planner to take the lead on complex development matters, guide a capable team, and help deliver smart, sustainable outcomes for one of Queensland’s fastest-growing regions. 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 www.tr.qld.gov.au/jobs for information on how to apply for jobs at Toowoomba Regional Council. Applicants are encouraged to apply online. For further information Please contact Matthew Coleman, Principal Planner on (07) 4688 6867 within business hours. Closing date The closing date for applications is Sunday 28th June 2026 at 11.59pm. About Council The Toowoomba region is about rich traditions and bold ambitions. Our long and proud agricultural history has evolved Toowoomba into Australia’s second largest inland city supporting diverse townships in the council area and acting as a service centre for South West Qld and North West NSW. The region is boldly forging new opportunities around the Surat Basin resource sector, education, health, transport and massive infrastructure investments. Growth hasn’t come at the expense of liveability though, with Toowoomba twice voted in the top 5 most family friendly cities in Australia. Toowoomba Regional Council services a regional population of 178,500 and employs a team of approximately 1,600 staff, dedicated and passionate about delivering excellent customer service to the community, residents and visitors throughout the region. We recognise that our success depends upon attracting and retaining skilled and talented staff and offer a wide variety of interesting challenges and opportunities to develop your career. Council does not accept unsolicited agency approaches or applications for this or any other vacancy. No response will be provided. Attachments: - Position Description - Lead Senior Planner (5253).pdf - TRC Values and Behaviours.pdf
