Town and city planners shape the growth and development of urban areas in Australia. Their work is reflected in the landscapes we inhabit, as they manage the efficient use of land and resources to build sustainable communities.
Aspiring urban planners should gain an education, accumulate practical experience, and consider professional certifications. Start with a relevant bachelor's degree, later followed by specialised postgraduate education.
5 Steps to Become a Town Planner
Many pathways lead to a career in city or town planning in Australia. The most common route includes a bachelor degree in a related field. This is typically followed by a career-specific masters degree, such as a Master of Urban Planning.
1. Earn a bachelor degree. Start with a bachelor's degree in a field that aligns with urban planning. Such fields could include architecture, community development, economics, environmental design, environmental science, geography, geographic information science (GIS), landscape architecture, law, planning, property development, property economics, or urban design and regional planning. These degree programs generally take 3-4 years of full-time study.
2. Gain relevant experience. Aim to secure entry-level work experience as an urban planner or in a related area like architecture, environmental consulting, real estate development, transportation planning, or community development. Internships, cooperative programs, part-time jobs, or research projects can all provide beneficial knowledge and skills for a town planning career.
3. Earn a masters degree. Earn a Master of Urban Planning, Master of Urban Design, or similar degree from an Australian university. Online masters programs take about 2.5 years of part-time study to complete, involving a mix of coursework and practical projects. Flexible entry requirements and pathway courses allow professionals with different backgrounds to gain admission. There may also be opportunities to specialise in a discipline such as environmental planning, transport planning, community development, or urban design.
4. Gain postgraduate work experience. Many employers prefer candidates who have some professional experience, so it's beneficial to gain experience in the field after your master's degree. This could be through a full-time job, a part-time position, or an internship related to urban planning.
5. Apply to become a Registered Planner (optional). If you have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience, you can apply for the Registered Planner certification from the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA).
And don't forget continuous learning. Stay updated with the latest trends, regulations, building codes and technologies in the field, even after becoming a qualified and experienced planner. You can attend workshops, conferences, or courses, read professional journals, or participate in other forms of professional development.
What Qualifications Do I Need to Be a Planner?
Working as a planner doesn't require a specific degree or certification in Australia. However, an undergraduate degree in a related field like urban and regional planning, environmental planning, city planning, economics, law, or geography can be beneficial.
Postgraduate qualifications, especially a Masters in Urban Planning or Urban Design, are highly valued in this field. They deepen your expertise and boost your competitiveness in the job market.
While not required, certifications like the Registered Planner designation can highlight your commitment to the profession. Remember, each employer and position may require different qualifications and experiences, so review individual job postings.
Related: Urban Design and Town Planning Courses
Are Town Planners In Demand?
Yes, town planners are in significant demand in Australia. According to the National Employment Projections, the number of Urban and Regional Planners is projected to grow by 8.3% from 2023 to 2028, reaching around 19,300.
This growth can be attributed to the visible surge in urban development, particularly in major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne. The consequent increase in development applications and procedures has led to a mounting need for qualified planners across all tiers of government, planning agencies, and consulting firms.
Furthermore, the rising complexity of planning guidelines and frameworks necessitates a specialist understanding in this field. As planning controls become more sophisticated, the role of a planner becomes increasingly crucial. Today's planning professionals are required to master a variety of skills, from spatial thinking and data interpretation to problem-solving and public engagement.
How Much Do Planners Make in Australia?
The average salary for a Planner in Australia is around $90k per year. However, salaries can be significantly higher in certain companies.
Geographical location also plays a role in salary variations, with planners in Brisbane for example earning a higher average salary. Moreover, specific roles in planning, such as Transport Planner or Environmental Planner, can also come with a pay premium.