Do you want to be a...

Local Government Inspector

Also known as Parking Inspector/Officer, Local Laws Officer, Traffic Officer, Ranger - Local Council and Animal Management Officer.

Local government inspectors are responsible for enforcing various council by-laws, parking and traffic regulations and provisions contained in the Local Government Act, and other legislation enforced by councils.

With experience and sometimes further training, inspectors may progress to the position of chief inspector.

Duties performed by inspectors vary among councils depending on where the council is and the inspector's experience and training. For example, an inspector employed by a coastal council is likely to perform duties relating to provisions contained in the Coastal Protection and Boating Acts.

In some councils, inspectors perform both traffic and general inspection duties.

Inspectors mainly work outdoors without direct supervision and may be required to wear a uniform.

They may be required to work some evenings, weekends and public holidays, overtime or shifts.

Inspectors have a considerable amount of contact with the public.

TASKS

Inspectors may perform the following tasks:

talk with people who dispute council actions
issue notices to cut back or remove plant growth that overhangs footpaths and streets, as well as undergrowth from premises
issue notices to people found littering
patrol streets and parking areas to check that vehicles are legally parked (have not exceeded maximum parking times, for example)
issue notices to people parking illegally
provide information to the police about stolen or abandoned vehicles
issue notices to people in violation of environmental protection regulations (such as lighting an incinerator outside specified times or illegally burning substances such as rubber)
catch stray and unregistered animals and, if possible, notify owners
follow up complaints, conduct interviews and issue penalty notices to animal owners who are in violation of the various acts and by-laws
keep records of issued notices and payment of penalties
attend court to give evidence in support of any prosecutions
give timely and courteous advice to the community

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy working outdoors and willing to work in all types of weather
able to deal politely and, at times, firmly with members of the public
good communication and conflict resolution skills
mature and confident
patient, able to show initiative and be discrete
able to cope with the physical demands of the job

Interest Area

SPECIALISATIONS

Compliance Officer (Local Government) - performs site inspections, investigates and reports on new and existing land use and building activities, and resolves complaints. They liaise with solicitors, developers, property owners and occupiers to achieve compliance with local government legislation. Compliance officers need to be able to communicate effectively and have a broad skill and knowledge base.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

You can work as a local government inspector without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications.

You may like to consider a VOC qualification in local government, specialising in regulatory services or health and environment. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

You can also become a local government inspector through a traineeship in Local Government (Health and Environment/Regulatory Services).

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

To work as a local government inspector, you may need to undergo a National Police Check and medical assessment. You may also need a drivers licence for cars and/or motorcycles. Contact your local council for further information.

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Local Government Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

In NSW, inspectors are employed by metropolitan and regional councils. In the ACT, inspectors are employed by the ACT Department of Territory and Municipal Services.

Employment opportunities include full-time, part-time and casual work. Available positions are advertised in local newspapers and on council websites.