• Shape the future of rural and remote communities through strategic land use planning and sustainable development.

• Launch your planning career with diverse experience in statutory and strategic planning in a unique regional context.

• Join a supportive team in Walgett Shire and help balance growth, heritage, and environmental values.

• Attractive salary of between $1,320.87 - $1,612.01 per week, plus superannuation.

• Generous benefits, including 5 weeks of annual leave, long service leave after 5 years, flex leave arrangements, and more!

About us:

Walgett Shire Council proudly serves a diverse and unique region in the heart of outback New South Wales rich in history and natural beauty. Life in Walgett Shire offers the best of outback living—open skies, a strong sense of community, and endless opportunities to explore.

For more information about Walgett and the Lightning Ridge area, please click here.

At Walgett Shire Council we have a people-first culture. Safety, our people, and service to the community are at the core of everything we do. We are looking for passionate and committed professionals who are aligned with our core values: Respect, Integrity, Ethical Conduct, Courage, Honesty, Accountability, and Responsibility.

About the role:

This entry-level position is responsible for assessing routine development applications, contributing to strategic planning projects, and providing planning advice to stakeholders. Working under the supervision of the Manager Planning and Compliance, the role ensures compliance with planning legislation while promoting practical, high-quality development outcomes. The role offers a dynamic introduction to regional planning and plays a valuable part in shaping the Shire’s future.

The Graduate Town Planner plays a key role in supporting sustainable development and managing land use across the Walgett Shire. The Graduate Town Planner will engage with a range of planning matters unique to the region, including opal mining areas, Crown land, and flood-prone zones. They will also support the development of local land use strategies, contribute to community consultation, and work collaboratively with internal teams and government agencies. 

This is a critical role for a Council that is committed to doing things differently, valuing transparency, teamwork, and delivering positive outcomes for the community.

About you:

• Holds a degree in Urban and Regional Planning with a strong foundation in statutory and strategic planning principles.

• Confident communicator with well-developed written and verbal skills, able to provide clear planning advice to diverse stakeholders.

• Proficient in using the NSW Planning Portal and relevant planning software, ensuring efficient and accurate processing of applications.

• Understanding of balancing regulatory requirements with practical development outcomes, particularly in rural or regional contexts.

• Committed to sustainable land use, community engagement, and continuous learning within a local government environment.

• Experience working in a rural or regional context is highly desirable
  
  
• Most importantly, you align with our values of Respect, Integrity, Ethical Conduct, Courage, Honesty, Accountability, and Responsibility, and are committed to building a positive workplace culture.

At Walgett Shire Council, we understand that not every candidate will meet every criterion, and that is perfectly fine—your passion and potential matter most to us.

The full position description can be viewed by clicking here.

For further information or discussion about the position, contact our Manager Planning and Compliance, Leigh Sage on 02 6828 6100 during business hours.

What we offer:

• A highly competitive salary of between $1,320.87 - $1,612.01 per week plus superannuation.
• Salary Packaging options to maximise your take-home pay
• Generous benefits, including 5 weeks of annual leave and long service leave after 5 years.
• Flex-time arrangements, promoting a healthy work/life balance.
• Professional development opportunities to support your growth and success.
• Employee Assistance Program available to support you and your family through all life’s challenges.
• Exceptional working conditions within a family-friendly and supportive environment.

How to apply:

To apply, follow the instructions below, complete the selection criteria and attach your resume and cover letter.

A failure to answer selection criteria and to attach your resume will result in your application not being considered.

Further information regarding the online application process may be obtained by contacting Council’s People and Culture Team via email jobs@walgett.nsw.gov.au 

Please Note: All correspondence regarding your application status and interview will be sent to you via email.

Closing date for applications:

Applications close at 9am on Wednesday, 16 July 2025.

Council reserves the right to close, withdraw or extend vacancies without prior notice.

Walgett Shire Council is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We encourage applications from people with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse persons, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, veterans, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.