About the Opportunity:

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a qualified Principal Planner with 10+ years of professional experience to join our Development Services Team in Freeling. This role is situated in a unique and rapidly growing rural area that features the internationally renowned Barossa Valley, historic townships, and the Roseworthy Township Expansion (RTE). The region is earmarked for significant growth, particularly with the release of the recent Greater Adelaide Regional Plan (GARP), making it an ideal time to become involved in the next phase of growth planning for the Council area.

Key Responsibilities:

Assess major and complex development applications, especially land divisions.

Ensure compliance with the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016

Undertake Section 138 land division clearances in collaboration with the Manager Development Services/Assessment Manager and Development Engineers.

Provide expert planning advice to Council, committees and stakeholders

Negotiate outcomes with developers and state agencies to achieve optimal results

Collaborate across Council departments to facilitate positive community outcomes and infrastructure development

Promote professionalism, customer service and legislative compliance in development assessment.

What We’re Looking For:

Qualifications: A degree in Urban and Regional Planning with a minimum of 10 years professional development assessment experience, plus eligibility for membership of Planning Institute of Australia. Eligibility for Accredited Professional – Planning Level 1 under the Accredited Professionals Scheme will be highly regarded.

Skills & Experience:

Comprehensive knowledge of development assessment techniques, including interpreting and applying relevant legislation and policies, including the Planning and Design Code and the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016.

Experience in the assessment and approval of complex development applications

Ability to read and understand Land Management Agreements (LMA’s) and Deeds.

Demonstrated organisational and project management skills with a strong ability to multitask.

Outstanding ability to communicate on multiple levels and manage relationships across networks with industry bodies, along with local and state governments.

Attributes:

Flexible and adaptable, eager to tackle new challenges in a dynamic environment.

A community-focused individual with a passion for sustainable development and growth.

Strong emotional intelligence with an ability to manage a broad range of situations.

Ability to negotiate and influence matters of significance

What We Offer:

Professional Development: Opportunities for training and growth in a thriving, high-growth region.

Benefits:

Competitive salary and remuneration.

Access to a comprehensive wellbeing program and income protection.

Annual salary increases in line with the Council’s Enterprise Agreement.

One rostered day off per month and additional ‘grace’ leave during the new year period

Healthy lifestyle programs such as health assessments and skin cancer screening.

Employee immunisation program.

Paid parental leave provisions.

Why Join Us:

This is an exceptional opportunity to grow within a supportive team that is dedicated to achieving outstanding community outcomes. You’ll have the chance to make a significant impact on the future development of a peri-urban environment while working within a culture that fosters innovation and professional growth.

Apply Now:
If you’re ready to take on the challenges and rewards of this dynamic role, submit your application today. We’re excited to see how your skills and experience can contribute to our vision for the region.

More information is available at Employment Opportunities | Light Regional Council

If this sounds like your next opportunity, please contact Lisa Sapio, Manager Development Services to discuss the role, on (08) 8525 3200.

Applications are invited to [email protected] Submissions close 9am on 3 September 2025.

Council is an equal opportunity employer encouraging and embracing diversity and supports an inclusive culture.

We encourage a smoke, drug and alcohol-free environment.

Only successful candidates will be contacted and will require a current National Police Clearance and undergo a pre-employment medical examination.