Planning Officer

Title: Planning Officer

Location: Parramatta, Australia

Occupation: Planning

Work type: Full-Time

Job Description:

Together we shape thriving communities, public spaces, places and economies.

• Permanent full-time (35 hours per week) opportunity (part-time hours considered)
• Parramatta office but NSW location negotiable, with hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $115,853 to $130,547 + super

The role

This role is a great opportunity to work at the centre of statewide planning and infrastructure policy. You'll support the delivery of NSW land-use planning policy, working closely with government agencies, councils, industry and professional stakeholders.

You'll contribute to research, analysis and policy development, help solve complex planning problems, and provide clear advice on the planning system, legislation and policy frameworks. A key part of the role is translating complex planning policy into practical, plain‑English guidance that supports efficient planning outcomes and informed decision‑making. The role focuses on policy projects that help shape the planning rules for infrastructure projects across NSW.

What you will bring to the role

• A tertiary qualification in planning, environmental science, law, policy or a related discipline, with ideally 2-3 years of experience in a land-use planning or government policy environment
• Knowledge of NSW planning and environmental legislation, and experience applying policy frameworks in real‑world contexts
• Experience undertaking research and drafting advice to support evidence‑based policy recommendations and outcomes
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex planning issues clearly to a wide range of stakeholders
• Confidence to engage with councils, government agencies and industry professionals to support consultation, collaboration and consistent policy understanding
• The ability to manage competing priorities, work to tight timeframes and contribute solutions in a complex and fast‑moving environment
• A proactive, collaborative mindset, with a willingness to take initiative and support broader team and policy objectives

What is an essential requirement:

• Tertiary degree qualification or other equivalent qualification
• Willingness to travel and Class C Driver's Licence for regional positions (note: travel is usually not needed in this role)

What's in it for me?

Join our team for a fantastic culture with dynamic collaboration and genuine long-term career support. We offer flexibility in work arrangements, diverse and fulfilling assignments, and prioritise work/life balance and wellbeing with initiatives like flex leave and access to support programs. Additionally, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to succeed.

About us

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) improves the liveability and prosperity of NSW. To achieve this, we: create vibrant, productive spaces and precincts; manage lands, assets and property effectively and deliver affordable and diverse housing. We strive to be a high-performing, world-class public service organisation that celebrates and reflects the full diversity of the community we serve and builds the cultural capability of our department to improve outcomes with and for Aboriginal people, communities and entities.

We are an inclusive and accessible workplace, where your individual contributions are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to feel a sense of connection and belonging. DPHI supports various employee affinity groups, practices flexible working, offers job share and workplace adjustments.