Finance Business Partner

13th August, 2025
Finance Business Partner (Accountant)
Fixed Term Contract - Full Time (15 Months)
The Opportunity
We are seeking a Finance Business Partner to support Council's strategic and operational financial objectives. This 15-month Fixed Term opportunity will see you work closely with business units across Council, providing trusted financial advice, analysis and insights. You'll play a key role in improving financial practices, driving sound decision-making, and enhancing business planning, budgeting, asset accounting and reporting processes.
With a strong focus on service and collaboration, you will be a key point of contact for financial matters, helping internal stakeholders navigate the complexities of corporate and financial accounting. This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a business-focused finance role with a regional Council committed to excellence and continuous improvement.
What Council Offers:
72.5 hour fortnight with roster variations depending on the position (9-day fortnight - RDOs in accordance with Council policy)
Up to 12.5% Superannuation employer contribution for contributing members
5 weeks annual leave plus 17.5% annual leave loading
15 days paid sick/parental leave
Salary Packaging options
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Accredited Mental Health First Aid Officers
Annual Flu vaccinations + Skin Checks
Corporate Uniforms (annual allowance) and PPE supplied
General Salary Information:
Level 6 Year 1 $96,956 per annum and $51.44 per hour including allowances plus superannuation.
Our Ideal Candidate
We are seeking a proactive and collaborative finance professional with strong analytical skills and a customer-focused mindset. You will have experience in financial and corporate accounting, with the ability to provide strategic advice and insights that support sound business decisions. Your ability to build strong relationships and communicate complex financial information clearly will be key to your success in this role.
Key Responsibilities
Partner with business units to provide strategic financial advice, analysis and reporting to support decision-making and operational performance.
Assist with the preparation and coordination of month-end and year-end financial processes, including reconciliations, journals, accruals, and financial statements.
Lead and support the development of annual budgets and budget reviews in collaboration with operational teams, ensuring alignment with organisational goals.
Monitor and report on budget performance, identifying and investigating variances and recommending corrective actions as needed.
Provide expert advice and support on accounts payable, debtor management, business planning, and financial compliance.
Contribute to the management of Council's rating, assets and property functions in accordance with relevant legislation, policies and procedures.
Support the continuous improvement of financial systems, processes and reporting tools to increase efficiency and accuracy.
Foster strong, collaborative relationships with internal stakeholders to enhance financial literacy and promote a customer-focused finance function.
Ensure all financial activities are undertaken in accordance with legislative requirements, accounting standards, and Council policies.
See the Position Description for a more extensive list of key responsibilities.
Key Selection Criteria
If our values resonate with you 'Opportunity, Respect, Strength and Accountability' and you possess the following qualifications and experience, read below about how to apply:
Mandatory:
Tertiary qualifications in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related discipline.
Demonstrated experience in financial management, budgeting, and reporting within a complex organisation.
Sound knowledge of accounting standards, legislation, and regulatory requirements relevant to local government or the public sector.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret and communicate financial information clearly to non-finance stakeholders.
Proficiency in the use of financial systems and Microsoft Excel, including experience with budgeting and reporting tools.
Demonstrated ability to build effective working relationships and influence across all levels of the organisation.
Well-developed verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, and presentations.
Experience contributing to or supporting the direction of a small team, with a focus on fostering collaboration and performance.
Desirable:
Membership or eligibility for membership with CPA Australia or Chartered Accountants ANZ.
Experience in a local government or public sector finance environment.
The Selection Process
We welcome candidates to inform us of any adjustments they may need to ensure a supportive and inclusive recruitment experience and workplace environment. Hinchinbrook Shire Council is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people and disadvantaged job seekers to apply.
Celebrating the rich diversity of our community, we are dedicated to attracting and employing people who reflect the community we serve. We value and respect the unique contributions of our employees and are committed to fostering an inclusive and safe workplace where everyone is supported to reach their full potential.
Please note that only individuals with the right to work in Australia are eligible to apply. As part of the recruitment process, the preferred candidate will need to undertake a National Police Check and pre-employment medical assessments, which may include drug and alcohol testing, to confirm their ability to meet the role's inherent requirements.
How to Apply
To apply, submit your application online by clicking 'Apply For Job' and follow the steps. Please provide:
A current resume
A cover letter addressing the "Key Selection Criteria" section (max. 2 pages).
Applications close on Thursday 28 August 2025 at 5.00pm AEST.
Our Region
Ingham is uniquely positioned just over an hour north of Townsville and approximately three hours south of Cairns and is within the tropical paradise of the Hinchinbrook Shire. With Ingham at its centre, the region is surrounded by rugged mountain ranges, giant waterfalls, the Great Barrier Reef, wild beaches and tropical islands. It's a place where breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife, world-class fishing experiences, delicious, locally sourced food, inspirational art and 60,000 years of culture are all weaved into one incredible story: The Hinchinbrook Way.
Our Council
Hinchinbrook Shire Council is proud to be one of the largest employers in the region, with a diverse team of around 200 people working across technical, administrative, operational, and senior management roles. We're committed to creating a fair, flexible, and supportive workplace where our staff can thrive while enjoying the unique attractions and vibrant community life of Hinchinbrook. With benefits such as a nine-day fortnight for most roles, generous superannuation, and leave entitlements, we offer opportunities to grow your career while embracing the lifestyle you love. By joining us, you'll be part of an organisation that values its people, promotes collaboration, and strives to make a lasting, positive impact on the Hinchinbrook community.
Applications that do not meet the above requirements may not be shortlisted. The advertisement will be closed either when a successful applicant is identified or on the application close date, whichever is sooner.
For More Information:
Thank you for your consideration and interest in this position. For a confidential discussion, contact Michelle O'Toole Chief Financial Officer on .
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