Senior Development Officer - Planning

Job Summary

Lead development assessment and planning advice for Berri Barmera Council in the vibrant Riverland community.

Our Client

Berri Barmera Council serves a vibrant Riverland community on the banks of the Murray River in South Australia. Renowned for its stunning river landscapes, thriving agricultural industry and welcoming community spirit, the region offers an exceptional lifestyle with opportunities to live, work, play and invest.

Council plays a key role in supporting sustainable growth, community wellbeing and the delivery of essential local services across the district. With a strong focus on innovation and long-term planning, Berri Barmera Council is committed to creating a prosperous future for the region and its residents.

The Role

Reporting to the Manager Environment and Regulatory Services, you will contribute to the assessment and management of development matters across the Berri Barmera Council area.

• Support Council’s statutory and strategic responsibilities relating to development and planning.
• Provide clear, timely and professional advice to applicants, consultants, internal teams, elected members and the wider community.
• Help ensure development outcomes are appropriately considered and aligned with relevant planning requirements.
• Work collaboratively across Council and with external stakeholders to support effective development outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Assess development applications in accordance with the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act and Planning and Design Code.
• Provide professional planning and development advice to applicants, stakeholders and Council staff.
• Prepare reports, recommendations and supporting documentation for Council and assessment panels.
• Manage development applications through assessment, approval and compliance processes.
• Interpret and apply relevant planning legislation, policy and statutory frameworks.
• Investigate and respond to planning enquiries and development-related matters.
• Represent Council in planning discussions with government agencies, consultants and community members.
• Liaise with internal teams and external stakeholders to achieve timely development outcomes.
• Deliver responsive, professional and community-focused planning services.

About You

• Degree qualified in Urban and Regional Planning (or equivalent) and eligible for Planning Institute of Australia membership.
• Accredited Professional Planning Level 1 (or ability to obtain).
• Minimum five years' experience in development assessment, preferably within local government.
• Strong knowledge of the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act, Planning and Design Code and Development Application Portal.
• Ability to assess development proposals and interpret complex legislation and policy.
• Excellent report writing, communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and statutory timeframes.
• Sound judgement and the ability to provide balanced, evidence-based recommendations.
• Current Class C Driver's Licence.
• White Card (or willingness to obtain).

In Return

• Join Berri Barmera Council and make a meaningful contribution to the sustainable growth and liveability of the Riverland.

• Enjoy a lifestyle beside the Murray River, approximately two hours from Adelaide and 90 minutes from Mildura.
• Access to the Riverland’s distinctive landscapes, produce, hospitality, entertainment, competitive sport and community opportunities.

Next Steps

To apply for this role, please click the ‘Apply Now’ button and include your CV and Cover Letter addressing the Essential Experience and Qualifications. Applications close Thursday 24^th September 2026.

For a confidential conversation, please contact Matt Hobby at Perks People Solutions on (08) 8273 9385.