Community Development Officer - Healthy Towns

About The Opportunity

At PMHC every employee plays a part in ensuring we work together to achieve positive outcomes for our community. To help us achieve this we are seeking an experienced Community Development Officer, Healthy Towns to join our team.

The Community Development Officer – Healthy Towns plays a key role in strengthening community wellbeing, inclusion and participation across the Port Macquarie‐Hastings region with a focus on Wauchope and surrounding communities. The role is responsible for planning, delivering and evaluating place‐based community development initiatives that empower residents, volunteers and local organisations to contribute to healthier, more connected and compassionate communities. Working collaboratively with stakeholders, service providers and community groups, the position supports engagement activities, community‐led projects, grant coordination, asset mapping and evidence‐based program delivery as part of the Healthy Towns program.

This position is based in Wauchope with travel required within Wauchope and to surrounding communities as well as to Port Macquarie when required. The role may be required to work from any Council location.

About The Role

Deliver the Healthy Towns (Wauchope) Program, a two‐year, Commonwealth‐funded initiative running until 31 March 2028
Support local services, networks and agencies to work in partnership to respond to community needs
Build the capacity of community groups and committees through planning support, collaboration and funding submissions
Strengthen social connection, participation and wellbeing so older people can age well and with dignity
Contribute to healthier, more connected and resilient communities through community‐led initiatives
Provide professional support across consultation, research, project delivery, monitoring and grant seed funding programs

Qualifications and Experience

Tertiary qualifications in Community Development, Community Services, Youth Work or a related field, or equivalent demonstrated experience in a similar role
Current Class C Drivers License
Working with Children Check
Demonstrated experience delivering community capacity‐building outcomes, including responding to sensitive and complex issues
Strong research, writing, reporting and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders
Demonstrated experience and success in maximising engagement with community groups

Remuneration and Benefits

Employment Type: Full time, Term Contract ending 31 March 2028, 35 hours per week

Salary (exclusive of super): Starting in the range of $87,269 to $94,079 depending on skills and experience

Opportunity for performance‐based increases available after 12 months.

Benefits

Flexible work arrangements – hybrid working and flexi‐time
Discounted gym membership through membership to Fitness Passport
Career development opportunities
Annual salary increase as per the Local Government (State) Award 2023 plus annual salary review
Long service leave after 5 years
Generous employee assistance program
Salary packaging options available through Salary Packaging Australia and Maxxia
Recognition through our annual awards ceremony celebrating and rewarding staff achievements

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

At Port Macquarie‐Hastings Council we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the vibrant community we serve—where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to thrive. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, veterans, people with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process or in the workplace, please contact us at jobs@pmhc.nsw.gov.au. We're here to support you every step of the way. #J-18808-Ljbffr