A unique opportunity exists to join a major state government body as a Principal Land Use Planner.

Principal Land Use Planner
Paying $70 - $80 per hour + super
Contract until 30 Jan 2026
Melbourne CBD

A unique opportunity exists to join a major state government body as a Principal Land Use Planner within the Strategic Urban Planning and Housing Futures team. This role will lead the delivery of strategic land use planning projects and programs, with a strong focus on implementing and reviewing urban development policies, including the Housing Roadmap.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drive the delivery of short and long-term strategic land use planning projects that maximise urban planning opportunities.
• Lead and manage project teams to deliver land use policies and planning initiatives.
• Oversee budgets in line with procurement and project management practices, ensuring outcomes are delivered on time and within scope.
• Represent the organisation at key government and planning forums, managing relationships with State and local government stakeholders.
• Provide strategic advice on planning policy reform, urban development, and legislative change.
• Collaborate across internal teams, offering technical expertise on land use policy and planning matters.
• Advise senior management and the Board on the organisation's position regarding key reforms and planning initiatives.

Key Selection Criteria:

• Tertiary qualifications in town planning, urban policy, or urban design.
• Extensive experience in strategic land use and development planning within government or urban development contexts.
• Strong understanding of the intersection between water and planning policy.
• Proven project management experience, including leading multidisciplinary project teams.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships, with strong communication and negotiation skills.
• Experience providing evidence-based policy advice to senior leadership and government stakeholders.
• Ability to identify and influence planning policy reforms that support organisational strategy and community outcomes.
• Commitment to collaboration, diversity of thinking, and innovative approaches to urban planning challenges.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced planning professional to contribute to shaping urban development policy and strategy at a state-wide level, while working in a collaborative and impactful team environment.

What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' or forward an up-to-date copy of your CV to [email protected]
This role also requires for all applications who're successful to have a Police Check and a valid Driving Licence.