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- Be part of strategic planning for a growing city
- Thrive in a forward-thinking, innovative local government environment
- Collaborate with a high-energy, values-driven team
- Enjoy hybrid work arrangements and a rostered day off every three weeks
- Our new office at Macquarie Park opens in April 2026
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Help shape the future of one of Sydney’s most vibrant and diverse communities.
Are you passionate about the power of planning to transform places and improve lives? This is your opportunity to contribute to the future of the City of Ryde, one of Sydney’s most dynamic and rapidly evolving local government areas.
With our population set to double over the next 30 years, we’re working hand-in-hand with the NSW Government to tackle the housing crisis and deliver smart, sustainable growth. Our strategy is clear: strike the right balance between housing, jobs, and infrastructure.
To support this transformation, we’re hiring for an exceptional Senior Strategic Planner to join our growing team!
About the Role
Working as part of the strategic planning team, you will play a vital role in shaping the future growth and character of the City of Ryde. You will develop forward‑thinking, long‑term planning policies and controls that guide sustainable development and deliver positive outcomes for our community.
As senior strategic planner, you will provide advice on complex policy matters and represent Council with confidence and professionalism at NSW Government planning forums, industry workshops, and community consultation sessions. Through your expertise and engagement, you will influence planning outcomes that balance growth, liveability, and community expectations.
About You
You bring to this role outstanding project management expertise, with a strong track record delivering complex and high‑profile planning projects such as Planning Proposals, Development Control Plans and masterplans.
With a deep understanding of planning policy and statutory controls, you pair technical excellence with an innovative and forward‑thinking mindset, always looking for smarter, better ways to shape great places. A natural collaborator, you build strong relationships, provide clear and evidence‑based advice, and communicate confidently with stakeholders at all levels.
You are equally comfortable working with multidisciplinary teams as you are presenting recommendations to senior leadership, influencing decisions, and helping shape the strategic direction of the City of Ryde.
In addition, you will also have:
- Bachelor’s degree in town planning or a similar discipline or extensive demonstrated experience in a related field.
- Knowledge and understanding of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act and associated legislation.
- Demonstrated experience in the preparation and assessment of planning proposals and related administration.
- Demonstrated experience in preparing planning policies, development controls plans and guidelines.
- Experience in developing and managing significant planning projects, such as masterplans, precinct plans or integrated strategic plans, or similar.
Your commencing annual salary will range from $136,880.41 - $154,734.37 + Superannuation, dependent on your experience and qualifications.
Culture & Benefits
- Free shuttle bus between the North Ryde Office and North Ryde Metro Station
- Commitment to providing opportunities for work/life balance
- Hybrid work from home and office arrangements available
- Flexibility regarding start and finish times to suit your lifestyle
- Work 37.5 hours and enjoy a rostered day off approx. every 3 weeks
- Long service leave after 5 years, then accrued monthly
- 18 weeks paid parental leave (for eligible employees)
- 3 extra grant days at Christmas to ensure you have time to enjoy the holiday
- Annual performance reviews and Award increases
- Opportunity to sign up as a fitness passport member
- Various health & well-being initiatives (i.e. flu vaccinations, skin checks, etc.)
How to apply
Please ensure you give full answers to the online application questions, showcasing your abilities and experience. Your answers, in conjunction with your resume, will determine if you are invited to an interview.
Please note you do not need a “password” to use our on-line application system, however you have the option save and return to your application prior to the closing date. In addition to answering the online questions, this position requires you to attach your Resume to complete the application process. Please note, you are not required to submit a cover letter or a statement addressing selection criteria.
Closing Date: Sunday 1st March 2026 at 11:30pm
If you would like to know more, please see the position description or contact Abdul Cheema, Manager City Places on 0478373631 for a confidential discussion relating to the role. If you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact Kelly Hawkins, Talent Acquisition Specialist on 9952 8480.
City of Ryde is committed to Equal Employment and Child Safety