What does a town planner do?
Have you ever wondered, what is town planning and what does a town planner do? Help shape the towns and cities we live in as a town planner (also known as an urban planner, city planner, or urban and regional planner). In this profession, you would use your expertise to create equitable, liveable, and sustainable spaces. Urban planning involves creating plans and policies to help cities grow while considering challenges such as traffic flow, environmental impact, social equality, and urban sprawl.
Your day-to-day as a town planner could involve analysing data to help make informed decisions about development, creating city plans, and collaborating with stakeholders (such as government, community members, and local businesses). Town planning jobs can be found in government agencies, private consulting firms, or not-for-profit organisations.
Is a career as a town planner right for me?
If you enjoy designing spaces and are passionate about community, you might like working in city planning. Other skills and attributes beneficial for this role include:
- good attention to detail
- strong ethical and moral standards
- good problem-solving skills
- an innovative mind
- conflict management skills.
How to become a town planner
Many professionals start their path to becoming a city and town planner with a bachelor's degree. After gaining a qualification in town planning, you may need to complete further industry and practical experience through research projects and internships.
If you're interested in becoming a town planner you may also like to learn more about our surveying and built environment degrees.
Average salary per week
$1747
Future demand
Strong
Industries
Related careers
Source: yourcareer.gov.au
© Commonwealth of Australia
Last updated May 2024.
Town planner FAQs
What is the typical town planner salary like in Australia?
Town planner salaries vary based on factors such as location, experience, and workplace setting. Refer to the salary information on this page for further details.
Are urban planners in demand in Australia?
Town planners, also known as urban planners, are in demand in Australia. This demand is expected to remain strong due to population growth, urban development projects, and government policies related to planning and infrastructure. According to the Skills Priority List, urban and regional planners were one of the occupations assessed as being in shortage. As such, a career as a town planner will open up many employment opportunities in Australia.
How long does it take to become a town planner?
The time it takes to become a town planner, or urban planner can vary depending on factors such as your educational background, training requirements, and employment opportunities.
At UniSQ, to begin a town planner career, through an honours degree, it typically takes four-years of full-time study to complete.
However, some students choose to study part-time, which increases the time it takes to finish the required courses. Gaining practical experience through undertaking internships, volunteer work, or research projects factors into the overall timeline of how long it takes to become a town planner.
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