Planner, Regional Planning Partnerships

Department of Transport & Planning Victoria – Melbourne VIC We create thriving places and connected communities. We bring together transport, planning, land use, precinct and policy functions in a single department to deliver the best outcomes for Victorians. Together with our portfolio agencies, we are responsible for planning, building, operating and maintaining Victoria’s transport, planning and land services for use by all. We foster a safe, inclusive and constructive place to work. About the group Planning and Land Services delivers responsive, customer‑focused, high‑quality planning, land administration and property services that support thriving places and connected communities. About the role This is an Ongoing Full Time Position. This role helps deliver the Regional Planning Hub program across rural and regional Victoria, providing councils with statutory and strategic planning support to strengthen local economies, community wellbeing and environmental outcomes. It involves offering high‑quality planning advice to the Minister for Planning and working closely with local governments and agencies to progress key initiatives that enhance prosperity and resilience in regional areas. The position also supports responsive, customer‑focused planning services that contribute to thriving places and connected communities. Key Selection Criteria To access the Position Description, please click here. To be successful in this role, the ideal candidate will demonstrate the ability to translate strategic objectives into well‑governed projects, using strong critical thinking to deliver sustainable, high‑quality outcomes. Success in this role relies on communicating with clarity and influence, maintaining a strong customer focus, and proactively managing risks to ensure service excellence. We’re looking for someone who can navigate complex issues, provide sound advice, and drive continuous improvement across programs and service delivery. Personal Attributes On a personal level, the successful applicant will be collaborative, adaptable and confident engaging with diverse stakeholders across complex regional planning issues. The team operates in a supportive, purpose‑driven environment, so a proactive mindset and a commitment to constructive partnerships will be essential. Position accountabilities This role delivers statutory and strategic planning services through the Regional Planning Hub program, supporting rural and regional councils to progress planning assessments, streamline planning schemes, and strengthen local economies and community wellbeing. It involves providing expert guidance, building strong stakeholder relationships, and representing the team across various forums. The position also requires flexible, collaborative work across the organisation and a commitment to cultural safety and inclusive practice. Provide statutory planning services to support the delivery and implementation of the Regional Planning Hub program. Initiate, maintain and manage effective relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, gaining cooperation and influencing views on complex, contentious and sensitive matters within established parameters. Represent or support the team at unit, division or group level management meetings and other forums where appropriate. Qualifications and experience A relevant tertiary qualification in urban planning and/or a related field is required. Knowledge of significant government policies and strategies on land use planning and legislation is required. Demonstrated knowledge of and experience in statutory and strategic land use planning, together with a sound understanding of regional planning and regional development issues. Culture Value We welcome applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds representing the community that we serve, including veterans, parents, carers, First Peoples, people with disability, multicultural, multifaith and LGBTIQA+ individuals. As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and high‑performance culture. Through shared actions and behaviours aligned with our strategy and direction, we empower our people to thrive and meaningfully contribute to the department’s goals. What we offer Working at the Department of Transport and Planning provides people with the opportunity to contribute to creating thriving places and connected communities for all Victorians. For further details please refer to Careers at the Department of Transport and Planning. Pre‑employment checks and employment conditions All new appointments to the department will be subject to a National Criminal Records Check, Misconduct Screening, and a Qualification Check where there is a requirement for a mandatory qualification. Information provided to the Department of Transport and Planning will be treated in the strictest confidence consistent with the requirements of the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014. Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa necessary for the nature of the position. Recipients of Victorian Public Service (VPS) voluntary departure packages should note that re‑employment restrictions apply. Non‑VPS applicants will be subject to a probation period of six months. How to apply Click the ‘Apply’ button to be redirected to our recruitment platform, where you may need to create an account to submit your application. Applications close at 11:59pm on Thursday, 18 December 2025. Please include both your resume and a cover letter. All applications must be submitted via the online portal; we’re unable to accept email or manual submissions. Contact For further information about the role, please contact Suzy Thomas Senior Manager, Gippsland and Regional Planning Partnerships at ***********@transport.vic.gov.au . #J-18808-Ljbffr