A great lifestyle in a treasured environment, this is life at PSC!

The opportunity

We have an exciting temporary opportunity for a Strategic Planning Officer to become part of our dynamic Strategic Planning team for a period up until 25 September 2026.

In this role, you will collaborate closely with the Senior Strategic Planner to enhance the physical, environmental, social, and economic well-being of the Port Stephens community.

This role would suit a student currently studying planning or a related field.

This is a contract opportunity until 25 September 2026 – working full-time 35 hours / week + access to a flexible working arrangement

Base Salary Range: $73,236 - $86,085 pa based on 35 hours / week + 12% superannuation + $2,464 retention allowance

You will be working from PSC Administration Building, Raymond Terrace

Some of the key responsibilities within this role are listed below however you can view the full list here – view the position description.

Provide administrative support to the Strategic Planning Unit and collaborate on strategic projects

Support the implementation of the Local Infrastructure Contributions Plan

Maintain the local infrastructure contribution registers

Provide excellent customer service and advice to the community and Council stakeholders

Oversee the planning certificate system and ensure dataset accuracy

We’re all about putting the right people, in the right role! Here’s what we’re looking for:

Tertiary qualifications (or working toward completion) in a related field or equivalent experience

Knowledge of planning and development legislation, including the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 (NSW)

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders

Excellent organisational and time management skills

This is life at PSC!

Work/Life balance with generous leave entitlements, flexible work options and leave in lieu

Confidential support (including mental health) through our employee assistance program

Award winning health and wellbeing program PSCare, Workers Health Initiative with access to a broad range of gyms in the area, and discounted health insurance

Free parking on site and a convenient local shopping centre

Coffee and food to keep you sustained at our on-site café

And lots more…

Enough about us, we want to hear about you! So tell us about…

Why you want this role and how it aligns to your career goals?

Ready to Apply? Here’s what you need to know

Applications Close: Midnight, Sunday, 12 October 2025

Contact: Gemma Wallace, Senior Strategic Planner, on 4988 0543

For information on our recruitment process, and what we look for in an application, please visit our Careers page on our website for ‘How to Apply’

To complete your online application, you will be asked to upload a copy of your resume and provide responses to questions which are based on the criteria listed in the Position Description and our organisation Values

We’re a 2024 Circle Back Initiative Employer – we commit to respond to every applicant

We’ve partnered with the Veterans Employment Program to support veterans finding suitable, sustainable and meaningful employment.

Port Stephens Council adheres to the principles of a child safe organisation and supports children and young people having safe and welcoming experience in our community, accessing our facilities and in our care.

We acknowledge the Worimi as the original Custodians and inhabitants of Port Stephens. May we walk the road to tomorrow with mutual respect and admiration as we care for the beautiful land and waterways together