THE POSITION:

This position is the organisations subject matter expert providing the advice to the internal stakeholders and represents Council externally in matters relating to local infrastructure contributions. The position is required to work collaboratively and influence outcomes across multiple stakeholders within the organisation.

The position will be required to:

• Interpret planning legislation and influence policy reform both inside and outside the organisation, including plan amendments and plan preparation
• Lead continuous improvements to various systems and procedures to ensure an efficient and effective development contribution system
• Work with Councils Finance Branch in relation to financial management of the contributions system
• Play a lead role in the negotiation of planning agreements that deliver significant community benefits
• Work with other key stakeholder to assess and manage financial and legal risks that could arise where administrative and process loopholes permit the avoidance of contribution payments, and therefore the development contribution system must withstand audit scrutiny

ABOUT YOU:

To be successful in this role, you will need:

• Tertiary qualification in Urban or Town Planning, Project Management, other related discipline, or relevant extensive demonstrated experience
• Substantial demonstrated experience and success in working with the local infrastructure contributions framework
• Detailed knowledge of the NSW Environmental Planning & Assessment Act (and associated Regulations), the Local Government Act and other relevant legislation
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to prepare planning reports that clearly and coherently present complex or potentially sensitive issues
• Strong project management skills, including the ability to deliver effective outcomes on time and on budget, 
• Strong creative thinking and problem-solving skills relating to policy, planning and process improvement projects
• Experience in analytical work concerning the preparation and review of development contributions plans, system and process improvements, and negotiation of voluntary planning agreements and / or works-in-kind agreements
• Demonstrated ability to apply Equal Employment Opportunity, Work Health & Safety and ethical practice principles, and to act with probity at all times
• Current driver's licence

The following qualifications and experience are considered advantageous for this role:

• Knowledge and or experience in the preparation of land use strategies and planning instruments and policies
• Local government experience

SALARY & EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS:

• Permanent position, 70 hours per fortnight
• This position is a Grade 8, salary range is $114,499 p.a. with progression to $126,385 p.a. on demonstrated competencies, with performance progression to $134,121 p.a, plus superannuation

Fairfield City Council offers a great working environment, where your career development and work life balance matters. We offer a range of benefits including:

• Flexible work arrangements such as a hybrid work arrangement
• A motor vehicle benefit is available
• Wellbeing initiatives including Flu vaccination, discounted gym memberships and onsite gym
• Free Onsite parking
• Significant leave benefits 15 days sick/personal leave, 2 days health and wellbeing leave per year
• Access to Long Service Leave after 5 years

FURTHER CONTACTS: Enquiries regarding the position description should be directed to Coordinator Strategic Planning, Chris Shinn on (02) 9725 0222. A position description is available below.

CLOSING DATE: Wednesday, 10 December 2025 at 5:00pm

HOW TO APPLY: Applications must address selection criteria (i.e. knowledge, skills and experience) outlined in the Position Description. Applications should be addressed to Coordinator Strategic Planning, Chris Shinn, and received by the closing date.

Fairfield City Council is a smoke-free workplace and is an EEO employer. As an inclusive workplace, we support reasonable workplace adjustment. If you do require an adjustment during the recruitment process, please notify us on your application form.

Applicants must have the right to work in Australia and may be required to undertake a national police clearance as part of the recruitment process.

NOTES:

Your application is being process through our new recruitment system; we appreciate your understanding and patience. If you have any feedback, please feel free to reach out to us at careers@fairfieldcity.nsw.gov.au

Suitable candidates may be placed on a talent pool or eligibility list for future identical, or similar positions for a period of 12 months.

Please upload documents in PDF format.

Please regularly check your 'junk mail' or ensure our email address careers@fairfieldcity.nsw.gov.au is set to 'trustworthy'.

PO BOX 21 FAIRFIELD NSW 1860

BRADLEY CUTTS GENERAL MANAGER