Finance Manager

About Us

Girringun Aboriginal Corporation (GAC) is a respected community-controlled organisation established in 1996 and based in Cardwell, Far North Queensland. We are governed by a Board of Directors representing nine Traditional Owner Groups:

• Djiru
• Girramay
• Bandjin
• Gulnay
• Warungnu
• Warrgamay
• Nywaigi
• Gugu Badhun
• Jirrbal

Together, these groups care for a significant part of the Wet Tropics and Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Areas.

Over nearly three decades, Girringun has grown into a multi-functional organisation delivering programs in:

• Natural and cultural resource management – including the award-winning Girringun Rangers, who manage land and sea country and biodiversity projects.
• Community development and social support – supporting employment, training, and wellbeing outcomes for Aboriginal people in the region.
• Arts and cultural heritage – through the internationally recognised Girringun Art Centre, celebrating cultural expression and sharing traditional stories with the world.
• Corporate services and governance – providing a strong base for Traditional Owner decision-making and the operations of associated entities.

Our work is deeply grounded in the recognition and respect of Aboriginal cultural values, identity, and self-determination.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced and capable Finance Manager to take a leadership role in ensuring Girringun Aboriginal Corporation remains financially sustainable, transparent, and compliant as it continues to grow.

This is a key executive position responsible not only for GAC's finances, but also for providing oversight and services across a number of associated entities. The scope of the role includes:

• Managing all day-to-day financial operations — accounts, payroll, reconciliations, cashflow, and budgets.
• Overseeing grant acquittals and statutory reporting to funding bodies, auditors, and regulators.
• Providing accurate, timely financial reporting to the CEO, the Board, and other governance structures.
• Leading and mentoring a Finance Officer, building capability and ensuring strong internal processes.
• Strengthening financial systems and controls to ensure compliance and effective risk management.
• Contributing to strategic planning and decision-making as part of the Executive Management Team.

The position is based in Cardwell, where being on the ground supports close collaboration with staff, Traditional Owner groups, and the community. While onsite presence is strongly preferred, work-from-home flexibility (at least one day per week) can be negotiated with the CEO.

Who We're Looking For

We are seeking a seasoned finance professional who thrives in complex environments and wants to apply their expertise in a role with genuine purpose and community impact.

The ideal person will be:

• Technically strong – grounded in accounting standards, CATSI Act compliance, and confident managing audits, budgets, and reporting.
• A proven leader – able to supervise and mentor staff while also supporting program managers and executives.
• Organised and adaptable – with the ability to prioritise across multiple programs, entities, and funding streams.
• Culturally respectful – with an understanding of Aboriginal culture and the ability to work in partnership with Traditional Owner groups.
• Both strategic and hands-on – comfortable balancing executive responsibilities with operational finance tasks.
• Girringun Aboriginal Corporation values a diverse and inclusive workplace. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, including Traditional Owners from within the Girringun Region, are strongly encouraged to apply.

Selection Criteria

To be successful in this role, you will need to demonstrate:

1. Qualifications & Knowledge

2. Tertiary qualifications in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or equivalent.

3. Knowledge of accounting standards (AASB), taxation requirements, and financial compliance obligations under the CATSI Act.

4. Experience

5. At least 5 years' experience in a finance or corporate services management role.

6. Experience preparing budgets, financial reports, acquittals, and liaising with auditors and funding bodies.
7. Experience managing payroll, superannuation, PAYG, STP, and HR/finance systems.

8. Leadership & Teamwork

9. Demonstrated ability to supervise, mentor, and develop staff.

10. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across teams and with external stakeholders.

11. Systems & Compliance

12. Ability to implement and strengthen financial controls, manage audits, and ensure compliance with regulatory obligations.

13. Proficiency in accounting and payroll software (experience with systems such as Quickbooks and Xero).

14. Cultural Awareness & Values Alignment

15. Understanding of, and respect for, Aboriginal culture and community governance structures.

16. Commitment to values of professionalism, integrity, accountability, and community-led decision making.

Candidates must have current Australian work rights at the time of application.

Desirable:

• CPA/CA qualification (or progress towards).
• Experience working with Indigenous corporations, not-for-profits, or multi-program funding models.

Why Join Us?

This is a career-defining opportunity for a finance professional who wants to make a meaningful contribution.

• You will:

• Play a key role in supporting nine Traditional Owner Groups to deliver community-led programs and manage country.

• Work for a respected Aboriginal corporation with strong governance and a diverse service footprint.
• Be part of an executive team that values collaboration, professionalism, and cultural respect.
• Enjoy the lifestyle benefits of the Cassowary Coast, nestled between the reef and rainforest.
• Access a comprehensive benefits package including:
  
  Salary: $90,000 to $110,000 per annum (depending on experience)
  
  Hours: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm, Monday to Thursday, and 8:00 am – 2:00 pm on Fridays, with a 30-minute break each day.
  
  Salary Packaging: Eligible for salary sacrifice
  
  Relocation costs available for the right candidate, subject to negotiation.
  
  Work-from-home flexibility available (at least one day per week), subject to negotiation with the CEO.

How to Apply

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we'd love to hear from you. Please click Apply Now and include your CV and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria.