Student Planner
- Assist with the assessment and processing of Development Applications and Modification Applications.
- Support strategic planning projects and community engagement activities.
- Provide accurate advice on land use, zoning, and planning legislation.
Directorate: Planning & Environment
Team: Planning & Place
Employment Status: Commencing in January 2027,Term Contract – Up to 12 Months
Employment Arrangement: 35 hours per week with access to Council’s Agile Work Policy
Position Number: POS 219
Salary Range: T7 $1,116.30 per week, plus 12% superannuation
About Strathfield Council
Strathfield Council is a dynamic, medium-sized Council located in Sydney’s Inner West. Covering an area of approximately 14 square kilometres, we proudly serve a vibrant and growing community of around 46,000 residents, with population projections set to exceed 60,000 by 2041.
We are committed to delivering high-quality services, driving community initiatives, and building a thriving, sustainable future for our residents.
The Opportunity
Strathfield Council is seeking a motivated Student Planner to join our team.
This is an exciting opportunity to build practical planning experience while completing your university studies. You will gain exposure across development assessment and strategic planning, working alongside experienced planning professionals and contributing to a range of planning matters that support Strathfield’s growing community.
You will lead with professionalism and integrity while actively promoting and living our PROUD Values—People First, Respect, Opportunity, Unity, and Dedication—contributing to a positive, inclusive, and high-performing workplace culture.
What You Will Be Doing
- Assist with the assessment and processing of Development Applications and Modification Applications
- Prepare reports and documentation relating to planning applications and proposals
- Support strategic planning projects, including Planning Proposals, strategic studies, Master Plans and amendments to Council’s LEP and DCP
- Assist with reviewing changes to planning legislation and considering potential impacts on Council operations
- Support community engagement and public exhibition activities for strategic planning projects
- Provide accurate written and verbal advice on land use, zoning, planning legislation and Council policies
- Respond to planning enquiries from customers, applicants and other stakeholders in a professional and timely manner
- Assist with Duty Planner services and contribute to the day-to-day activities of the Planning & Place team.
Essential Requirements
- Currently studying at university and completing a relevant degree related to planning with a good academic record
- Experience in dealing with a range of customers and providing quality customer service
- Experience and ability to work in a team environment
- Demonstrated experience in report writing
- Ability to analyse planning reports and proposals with attention to detail
- Excellent computer skills with the ability to use Microsoft applications
- Effective time management skills
- Ability to always handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism
- Possession of a current, unrestricted NSW Driver Licence.
Desirable
- Ability to interpret planning legislation and Council’s policies and procedures
- Ability to problem-solve.
Why Work With Us
At Strathfield Council, you will enjoy a supportive workplace that values balance, growth, and wellbeing. Benefits include:
- Flexible work arrangements through our Agile Work Policy
- 35-hour working week with options for a compressed four-day week
- Generous learning and development opportunities
- Complimentary Employee Assistance Program
- Access to the Fitness Passport Program
- Health & Wellbeing Reimbursement Program
- Regular staff engagement events, including quarterly Roadshow lunches.
- Generous leave entitlements under the Local Government (State) Award (NSW).
Click here for more details about our staff benefits and Click here to view Council’s Agile Work Policy.
Position Description
Click here to review the full position description for this role.
How to Apply
To submit your application online:
- Complete your details and answer the application questions.
- Attach the following documents in PDF format:
- Cover letter addressing the selection criteria
- Current resume
For questions about the role, please contact our People & Culture team at peopleandculture@strathfield.nsw.gov.au.
Applications via email will not be accepted.
Applications close at 11:59pm on Wednesday 21 October 2026.
Apply Now
About Us
Strathfield is a vibrant and multicultural hub located within 15 kilometres of the CBD, in the Inner West of Sydney.
Renowned for our culturally diverse and socially cohesive community, our vision is providing Strathfield with well-connected transport, business and educational institutions, whilst preserving our unique heritage and environment.
We govern over an estimated 40,000 residents in the areas of Strathfield, South Strathfield and parts of Greenacre, Homebush and Homebush West. Our Council Area is also home to a wealth of fantastic parks and open spaces, natural bushland areas and waterways.
As a medium-sized council that focuses on a plethora of Local Government functions, Strathfield Council presents vast opportunities whilst providing upskilling and experience that is tailor-fitted to individual needs.
With ongoing training, the freedom to explore different career paths and the opportunity to work on exciting projects, why not consider developing your career whilst making a difference within the community.
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