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 requirted 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

We Are Seeking Someone With

• 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

About The Port Macquarie Hastings Region

The region is one of Australia's most enviable locations. We boast a stunning hinterland, kilometres of pristine beaches, national parks, playgrounds, sporting facilities, restaurants, galleries, theatres and a genuine community vibe. The Mid-North Coast is perfect for hiking, surfing, camping, fishing, exploration, sports, arts, theatre, food and wine.

Questions?

If you would like to know more about this opportunity or have any questions about the role, please contact Steve Bryant, Community Activation Manager on (02) 6581 8163 or ***email_hidden***

Interested in Applying?

Click 'Apply now' to create an account and complete the application form. You'll be asked to answer questions relating to the position description and upload a copy of your resume and cover letter.

Documents should be submitted in PDF format.

Applications Close: Sunday 14 June 2026 at 11:30pm

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 [email protected]. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Notes

Suitable candidates may be placed on a talent pool or eligibility list for future identical, or similar positions for a period of 12 months.

Please upload documents in PDF format.

We often ask our preferred applicants to complete pre-employment checks. This may include: Reference Checks; National Criminal Police Check; Medical Assessment; Qualification Verification; Working with Children Check Verification.

PMHC's recruitment notification process is primarily via system generated emails. Please ensure your email is correct before submitting an application to avoid missing crucial updates and outcomes. Email communication notifications are used for but not limited to: application received, interview booking tools, confirmation of interview, request for references/more information, delay notifications, testing/assessments (aptitude/psychometric/industry specific) and application outcomes (unsuccessful before or after interview).

Please regularly check your 'junk mail' or ensure our email address [email protected] and Pulse email [email protected] is set to 'trustworthy'.

Port Macquarie Hastings Council adheres to the principles of a child safe organisation and is committed to the care and protection of all children and young people.