Generate plans and policies controlling the use of urban and rural land, advise on economic, environmental and social factors affecting land use.
Urban and regional planners compile and analyse data on economic, legal, political, cultural, demographic, sociological, physical and environmental factors affecting land use.
They also:
- confer with government authorities, communities, architects, social scientists, legal professionals, and planning, development and environmental specialists
- devise and recommend use and development of land, and present narrative and graphic plans, programs and designs to groups and individuals
- advise governments and organisations on urban and regional planning and resource planning
- review and evaluate environmental impact reports
- stay up-to-date with changes in building and zoning codes, regulations and other legal issues
Urban and regional planners may serve as mediators in disputes over planning proposals and projects; and speak at public meetings and appear before government to explain planning proposals.
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics
Disclaimer: This page provides study pathway and career options as a guide only. You should contact the Admissions Centre, International Centre or relevant Faculties for full details.
Study pathways
The following study pathway shows the most common and direct route for a UWA student to pursue this career.
Undergraduate
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This course is required to pursue this career.
- Integrated Design
- Economics
- Environmental Science
- Geography
- Landscape Architecture
- Law and Society
- Natural Resource Management
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Postgraduate
Professional requirements
UWA courses accredited by the Planning Institute of Australia (www.planning.org.au) are a Bachelor's degree with Honours in Urban and Regional Planning or the:
Other recommended majors include:
Graduate profile
- Rebecca White
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Graduate Researcher / Town Planner, Planning Context, West Perth WA
BEc, BSc Urban & Regional Planning (Honours), UWA
I began my university studies doing commerce and economics, with the aim of going into accounting or finance. At that stage I didn’t even know that planning existed!
My favourite units at UWA were Rural Geography and Planning, and Social Planning. These were very interactive, diverse and interesting units and consequently, I developed a number of skills that are invaluable in my work - skills such as problem solving, critical thinking and analysis, and time management.
I undertook a work placement as part of my Honours, focusing on economic modelling to assist in the implementation of the Activity Centres Policy and the research of economic benchmarks.In my current position I research aspects of town planning, especially in the areas of policy and governance. This requires a good understanding of the legislation and policies that underpin the West Australian planning system. There are many opportunities to work for and interact with well respected and influential people in my profession.
Although this is my first position since leaving university, one highlight already has been my review of one local government’s planning system.