See payment options below.
Overview
The LGA50120 Diploma of Local Government (Planning) is designed for Local Government Officers who support statutory planning functions and require practical, applied capability in planning legislation, schemes and development assessment.
This nationally recognised qualification builds planning‑specific knowledge within a broader Local Government governance and legislative framework. It is suited to Officers who have developed experience in planning administrative, technical or support roles related to planning and are seeking to formalise and strengthen their capability through structured training.
Delivered by experienced Local Government practitioners, the Town Planning stream focuses on practical application in real Local Government planning environments. Learning is fully contextualised to the Western Australian Local Government sector and supports confident participation in planning‑related decision‑making and processes.
Developed in accordance with the Local Government Training Package (LGA), the qualification is approved by the Training Accreditation Council (TAC).
The Town Planning units may also be undertaken as a standalone option.
Learning Outcomes
In addition to the core learning outcomes of the Diploma of Local Government, completion of the Town Planning stream develops the capability to:
- Interpret and apply development planning legislation, schemes and instruments
- Undertake minor development assessment activities
- Understand planning‑related governance and compliance obligations
- Support the protection of heritage and cultural assets
- Apply planning knowledge within Local Government frameworks and processes
Course Information
To enrol in this qualification, participants must:
- Have completed Year 12 or equivalent and/or another tertiary qualification
- Be employed by a Western Australian Local Government
Participants also require intermediate Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital (LLND) skills to successfully participate in training and assessment.
The recommended timeframe to successfully complete the Diploma of Local Government (Planning) is between 18 and 24 months, depending on class availability.
When undertaking the Town Planning units as a standalone option the duration is approximately 3–4 months, with delivery scheduled once per year.
The Diploma is delivered through structured weekly training sessions facilitated by a qualified Trainer and Assessor. Sessions are conducted via Zoom, supporting accessibility and regular engagement.
Learning is competency‑based and applied to the participant’s Local Government workplace. Training is delivered across study terms, with scheduled study‑free periods and holiday breaks included to support sustainable participation over the duration of the qualification.
Town Planning units commence with a two‑day face‑to‑face workshop delivery at WALGA in West Leederville.
Each participant is provided with an individualised Training and Assessment Plan outlining all workshops, assessment requirements and due dates for each Unit of Competency.
Assessment tasks are individual and workplace‑based, aligned directly to the participant’s Local Government role.
Assessment methods may include knowledge assessments, project work, scenarios and direct observation. Tasks are designed to support practical application of learning and require access to Local Government systems, records and policies. Participants should allow approximately 10 hours each week for reading, research and completion of assessment activities. The time required may vary depending on each student’s study skills and level of experience within the sector.
Participants are encouraged to seek support from their supervisor, manager or CEO prior to enrolment to ensure appropriate workplace access and support throughout the course.
LGA50120 Diploma of Local Government (Planning)
- On successful completion of this course and if you have been found to be competent in relation to each of the Units of Competency you will be issued with an AQF Qualification LGA50120 Diploma of Local Government (Planning).
- Participants who exit the course prior to completion will receive a Statement of Attainment for any units where competency has been achieved
- On successful completion of the Town Planning Specialisation Stream ONLY and if you have been found to be competent in relation to the three Town Planning Units of Competency you will be issued with a Statement of Attainment (SoA).
Units of Competency
The Diploma of Local Government (Planning) is nationally recognised within the Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) and consists of 12 Units of Competency (UoC), five (5) core and seven (7) elective units.
- BSBXCM501 Lead communication in the workplace (Core)
- BSBOPS505 Manage organisational customer service (Core)
- LGAREG003 Manage conflict situations in a regulatory environment
- LGACOR001 Work in local government (Core)
- PSPLEG003 Promote compliance with legislation in the public sector
- LGACOR005 Represent council in the community
- LGACOR008 Provide advice to council
- BSBOPS504 Manage business risk (Core)
- BSBWHS521 Ensure a safe workplace for a work area (Core)
- LGAPLA001 Interpret and apply development planning legislation, schemes and instrument
- LGAPLA002 Perform minor development assessments
- LGAPLA005 Protect heritage and cultural assets
Training Type and Fees
This qualification is available as a traineeship for eligible employees and is funded through Jobs and Skills WA.
The traineeship pathway is commonly used to support new or recently appointed Local Government employees, combining structured, on‑the‑job learning with nationally recognised training.
This pathway enables Local Governments to build workforce capability while employees develop practical skills and knowledge within their role and organisational context.
The traineeship pathway is typically suited where:
- an employee is at the commencement of their Local Government career
- eligibility requirements for a traineeship are met
- the organisation is building foundational capability within the workforce
- structured development is required alongside day‑to‑day work
Key features of the traineeship pathway include:
- subsidised training costs for eligible employees
- workplace‑based assessment aligned to the trainee’s Local Government role
- support and guidance for employers and trainees through an Apprentice Connect Australia Provider
- potential access to employer incentive payments, subject to eligibility
Training delivery, assessment and learner support align with the standard qualification delivery model.
Employers and employees interested in the traineeship option are encouraged to contact WALGA Training for advice on eligibility, registration and next steps.
Indicative Fees*
- $5.79 per nominal hour
Total fees are approx. $3,500.00 - $4,100.00 over 2 years, depending on the selected stream of study.
*The student tuition fees are indicative only and are subject to change given individual circumstances at enrolment. Additional fees may apply such as resource fees and others. These must be charged in accordance with the Fees and Charges Policy.
The Diploma qualification is not eligible for a concession fee rate.
The fee‑for‑service option is available for participants who are not eligible for a traineeship, or where a Local Government chooses to self‑fund the training as a targeted professional development investment.
This option is commonly used for experienced Officers, established employees, or roles where the traineeship pathway is not appropriate due to eligibility, timing or workforce planning considerations.
Local Governments often select the fee‑for‑service pathway where:
- an Officer is an experienced employee seeking formal recognition of existing capability
- the qualification forms part of a structured workforce development or succession planning strategy
- training is aligned to organisational priorities rather than entry‑level employment
The Diploma supports capability development across governance, legislation, risk management, community engagement and service delivery, contributing to improved organisational performance and long‑term workforce capability.
Fees
Nationally recognised training is GST free and fully tax deductible.
- Option 1*: $12,000.00 – Payment made by student or upfront by the Local Government with one purchase order submitted at enrolment
- Option 2: 3x payments of $4,500.00 (total $13,500.00) - Payment is made by the Local Government in three equal instalments, with a purchase order required for each instalment at enrolment.
- Town Planning Specialist Stream Units ONLY
Option 3*: $4,500.00 – Payment made by student or upfront by the Local Government with one purchase order submitted at enrolment
*Payment plans are available. If an individual wishes to pay for their own course fee, WALGA Training must limit individual payment to a maximum of $1,500.00 per payment to protect fees paid in advance.
Future Leaders Scholarship
WALGA Training is proud to launch the Future Leaders Scholarship.
The Future Leaders Scholarship supports Local Government Officers to undertake the LGA50120 Diploma of Local Government, strengthening capability across governance, legislation and decision-making.
The program is designed for practical application in the workplace, equipping participants with the knowledge, judgement and confidence to contribute effectively to governance processes, manage risk, and engage with stakeholders in complex Local Government environments.
Developed in close consultation with the WA Local Government sector, the qualification reflects current workforce needs and supports Officers to progress from operational experience to professional expertise.
Upcoming Course Dates
| Dates | Delivery Method | Duration | Fees | Location | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thursday, 3 September 2026 (Registrations close on Tuesday, 25 August 2026) | Virtual | N/A |
See payment options below. |
Blended delivery method | Register here |
Frequently Asked Questions
Trainers and Assessors provide support to learners throughout their study term during class time and through follow-up emails or chats on designated training days. Additionally, the WALGA Training support team is available to answer questions, issue regular progress reports to both students and supervisors, and address any arising issues to ensure successful program completion.
