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- Tasks: Shape vibrant communities through innovative planning for social infrastructure and open spaces.
- Company: Join Surf Coast Shire Council, a leader in community development and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible work arrangements, career growth opportunities, and a supportive workplace culture.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with numerous social activities and employee wellbeing programs.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community wellbeing and connection in a stunning coastal environment.
- Qualifications: Tertiary qualification or 3+ years experience in relevant fields, with strong project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 111811 - 123329 £ per year.
Location: Head Office - Civic Building, Torquay
Job Category: Community Services & Development, Other
Permanent Full Time $111,811 – $123,329 pa (plus 12% super and annual pay increases)
Flexible working arrangements available including flexitime, WFH and RDOs
Who we are
There are not many places in Australia quite like Surf Coast Shire, where you can surf at world-class locations like Bells Beach Djarrak, drive along the scenic coast on the Great Ocean Road, or explore the many waterfalls set in tranquil rainforests. Surf Coast Shire spans Traditional Lands of the Wadawurrung People and the Gulidjan and Gadubanud Peoples of the Eastern Maar Nation. Council plays a pivotal role in planning and development, guiding sustainable growth while preserving the region's natural beauty. Council actively supports economic development initiatives, fostering local businesses and promoting tourism to stimulate the local economy. Our people play vital roles in creating an innovative, safe, respectful, and supportive workplace, living our values, and delivering exceptional services to our community. We work together, we see opportunity, we do what we say, and we make a difference.
Job Description
Your new career
Join a team shaping the future of Surf Coast’s communities through integrated, place-based planning. The Social Infrastructure and Open Space Planning Team leads the delivery of vibrant, inclusive places - planning for everything from community hubs, libraries and early years facilities to sporting reserves, trails and open spaces. Working across Council and with the community, you’ll help turn long-term strategies into real places that support connection, wellbeing and growth.
What you will bring to the role
You’re a collaborative and strategic thinker who is passionate about creating places where communities can connect and belong. You bring a balance of big-picture planning and practical delivery, and enjoy working across teams, stakeholders and the community to turn ideas into impactful outcomes. To thrive in this role you will have:
- A strong placemaking mindset, with experience in social infrastructure or open space planning
- Proven project management skills, ideally across complex or multi-stakeholder projects
- The ability to provide clear, informed advice and contribute to strategic planning frameworks
- Strong stakeholder engagement skills and a collaborative, relationship-focused approach
- An understanding of (or genuine interest in) the Surf Coast community and its unique places and spaces
Key selection criteria
Mandatory qualifications, experience and requirements
- A Tertiary qualification in social infrastructure, open space or recreation planning or a related discipline or a minimum 3 years' experience in one or more relevant fields (qualification check conducted).
- Demonstrated experience in social infrastructure, precinct planning and policy development.
- Demonstrated experience in project management and report and grant writing.
- Demonstrated strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Well-developed relationship management and communication skills and ability to communicate and engage effectively with members of the public, Councillors, staff and a range of external agencies and audiences.
- A current Working With Children Check
- You have the permanent right to live and work in Australia
- Police Check results that are suitable for this position (will be arranged by Surf Coast Shire Council).
- A complete international criminal history check is required if the person has worked or lived overseas for any period of time OR a complete national criminal history check is required if the person has only ever worked in Australia.
What you’ll love working with us
Council embraces diversity and social inclusion and encourages applications from skilled people from all walks of life. We recognise that our employees play a vital role in creating an innovative, safe, respectful and supportive workplace, living our values and delivering exceptional services to our thriving community. Council is committed to providing a workplace culture of equity, inclusion and diversity that eliminates all forms of discrimination, harassment and bullying. There are numerous social activities throughout the year available as well as the benefits of:
- Flexible working arrangements including working from home and flexi time options, RDOs
- Employee Assistance Program and award-winning staff wellbeing program
- Career development and learning opportunities, we help our people grow
- Purchase of additional annual leave
- Free onsite parking
- Leave loading.
For more information
You’ll find further details about the role, including accountabilities and key selection criteria, in the Position Description on our website.
If you believe you have the knowledge, skills and experience to fulfil this role and would like further information, please contact Genevieve Cooper, Coordinator Social Infrastructure & Open Space Planning on 5261 0600.
How to apply
Applications are to be in Word or PDF format and should include a:
- cover letter including your statement addressing the selection criteria
- copy of your resume.
Please note that only applications with a statement addressing the selection criteria will be considered for this position. Simply complete the application process by clicking the "Apply Now" button and we’ll be in touch with you shortly regarding your application. Applications close at 11.59pm Sunday 19th April 2026.
Surf Coast Shire Council is an equal opportunity and child safe employer.
Senior Social Infrastructure Planner in Torquay employer: Surfcoast
Contact Detail:
Surfcoast Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Social Infrastructure Planner in Torquay
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the community services and development sector. Attend local events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy to reach out for informational chats. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the Surf Coast community! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or during interviews, share your thoughts on local issues and how you can contribute to the community’s growth. This will show them you’re not just looking for any job, but you genuinely care about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the council’s recent projects and initiatives. Being knowledgeable about their work will help you stand out and demonstrate that you’re ready to hit the ground running. Plus, it’ll give you some great talking points to showcase your strategic thinking skills!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Surf Coast Shire. Make sure to tailor your application to highlight your experience in social infrastructure and open space planning!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Social Infrastructure Planner in Torquay
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your passion for community planning and how your experience aligns with the role. Don’t forget to address the selection criteria directly – this is key for us!
Tailor Your Resume: Customise your resume to reflect the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the Senior Social Infrastructure Planner position. Use keywords from the job description to show we’re on the same page about what you bring to the table.
Showcase Your Project Management Skills: Since project management is crucial for this role, include specific examples of past projects you've managed. Highlight your ability to work with multiple stakeholders and how you’ve turned ideas into impactful outcomes.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. Just hit the 'Apply Now' button and make sure all your documents are in Word or PDF format. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Surfcoast
✨Know Your Community
Before the interview, take some time to research Surf Coast Shire and its unique community. Understand the local culture, key issues, and recent developments in social infrastructure. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you connect your experience to their needs.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Be prepared to discuss specific examples of your project management experience, especially in complex or multi-stakeholder environments. Highlight how you’ve successfully navigated challenges and delivered impactful outcomes, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Demonstrate your strong stakeholder engagement skills by sharing stories of how you've collaborated with various groups. Discuss your approach to building relationships and how you ensure everyone’s voice is heard in the planning process.
✨Prepare for Strategic Thinking Questions
Expect questions that assess your strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. Prepare to discuss how you would approach long-term planning and policy development, particularly in relation to social infrastructure and open spaces.