Meet Melinda – Planner

Published on 05 August 2026

Melinda Ryan - Planner

Thinking about building a home, starting a business or developing your property? Chances are Melinda will be one of the people helping guide you through the planning process.

What are your main roles and responsibilities?
My main responsibilities include responding to enquiries from the public, assessing Development Applications, completing Dwelling Entitlement Search Applications, attending meetings, navigating the NSW Planning Portal and providing planning advice to a wide range of clients and stakeholders, from local landowners through to organisations such as Homes NSW delivering affordable housing.

My role also includes assisting with planning proposals, researching the permissibility of developments, interpreting legislation, and applying both State legislation, including State Environmental Planning Policies and the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, as well as local planning controls such as the Warrumbungle Local Environmental Plan and Warrumbungle Development Control Plan.

I regularly work with external agencies including Transport for NSW, the NSW Rural Fire Service, WaterNSW, NSW Fisheries and Crown Lands. I also prepare Section 10.7 Planning Certificates, liaise with solicitors and legal representatives, investigate potential unauthorised development, assist applicants with lodging Development Applications, and carry out completeness checks to ensure all required documentation has been submitted.

What's one thing people might be surprised to learn about your job or service?
Most of the work in my role is governed by State legislation. The rules and regulations we work with aren't necessarily set by Council, which can sometimes make it challenging when helping people with their developments. We always do our best to find an alternative solution wherever possible.

What do you enjoy most about working for Warrumbungle Shire Council?
I enjoy the camaraderie of working alongside professionals in the field. Every day brings something new to learn, and no two development applications are ever exactly the same.

How does your role help our community?
My role acts as an important check on new developments taking place across the Warrumbungle Shire. This helps ensure developments meet current legislation and standards, while also protecting property owners in the future. I also take the time to explain planning requirements and guide people through the Development Application process to make it a little less daunting.

What's one challenge people don't realise comes with your job?
The biggest challenge is that planning legislation is constantly changing, so there's always something new to learn and keep up to date with.

What's the most rewarding part of helping the community through your role?
The most rewarding part of my role is helping people understand what's required so they can achieve their goals, whether that's building a new home, starting a business or progressing another development project.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I've been riding horses since before I could walk. Nearly every day after work, you'll find me out riding one of my horses. It's the perfect way to clear my mind and switch off. I compete in the sport of Eventing, so keeping both myself and my horses fit is a big part of my life.

If you could describe our community in three words, what would they be?
Connected. Homely. Historical.