The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) is delivering a course to address a shortage of qualified planners in Queensland Local Government. The Diploma of Local Government (Statutory Planning) is presented by the LGAQ in partnership with RKC Consultancy Pty Ltd, the Planning Institute of Australia Queensland Division, and Department of Local Government, Planning, Sport and Recreation.
LGAQ Manager Training Services, Kathy Kelly, said the course up skills Local Government employees who have worked in a Planning Department for at least two years. This will enable them to take on some of the less complex development assessment tasks and free up qualified planners for tasks requiring a higher level of professional judgement and assessment.
“The course complies with the Australian Qualifications Training Framework as a competency approach to training, and is contained in the Local Government training package (planning),” Kathy Kelly said. “This means that the course has been designed and is delivered within national competency standards.
“It recognises the skills and knowledge of employees and delivers learning aids, resources, support materials and projects which are linked to the individual’s employment.”
The course comprises a total of six days attendance across three blocks over a six month period. Work based projects and activities are undertaken under the supervision of a qualified planner. Networking, mentoring and one on one support are all key elements.
Assessment requirements to qualify for the diploma are rigorous and are directly related to the candidate’s supervisor, workplace, role and responsibilities.
A pilot course was undertaken between March and July 2005 involving 14 candidates from a range of rural, regional and metropolitan Councils across Queensland
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Kathy Kelly said feedback from candidates and their Councils was extremely positive. “The LGAQ now hopes to hold three courses per year,” she said. “At the end of April 2006, some 45 staff have already completed the diploma.”
The course is not intended to be a substitute for a full planning degree but rather to provide skilled para professional assistance to qualified planners in Local Government.
For further information contact training@lgaq.asn.au
