Financial Accountant

Join Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) and make a difference

What we offer:

• Based in Cairns or the Torres Strait Region
• Full-time, fixed term (2 years)
• Level 7, up to $85,800 p/a
• 6 weeks annual leave
• Additional public holidays gazetted by TSIRC
• Uniforms
• Opportunities for professional growth and development

About the region

Torres Strait Regional Council (TSIRC) is the largest employer in the Torres Strait serving 15 'outer' island communities with unique characteristics and service requirements. Beyond traditional local government services, we are deeply invested in the social, environmental, and economic development of our region. We are values driven and work as One with respect for Ailan Kastom.

About the role

This position supports the Manager Financial Accounting & Assets in achieving Council's financial and asset management objectives. You will be responsible for ensuring accurate and timely financial information and analysis, assisting with compliance and statutory reporting, and contributing to the enhancement of Council's financial systems, processes, and reporting tools.

Key Responsibities

• Oversee the maintenance and completeness of accurate asset registers, including processing capitalisations, disposals, and depreciation in accordance with legislation and accounting standards.
• Assist with the financial reporting and processing requirements in asset management at month end and year end.
• Assist in preparation of the annual financial statements and liaise with internal and external auditors.
• Coordinate and prepare statutory returns as required by regulatory bodies.
• Support budgeting, forecasting and the preparation of operational and capital budgets.
• Coordinate data capture into the asset register of information for analysis relevant to the long- term financial and asset management planning.
• Contribute to the asset revaluation process and liaise with auditors and internal stakeholders.
• Assist the broader Finance team with other period end processing and year-end financial close processes as required.
• Routine and ad hoc financial and asset reporting, ensuring compliance with all statutory reporting requirements.
• Perform timely reconciliations of balance sheet accounts to ensure accuracy and consistency within the general ledger.
• Ensure compliance with financial legislation, standards, tax regulations, and internal controls.
• Prepare audit documentation and respond to audit queries.
• Drive process improvements, system efficiencies, and data accuracy.
• Maintain proper record keeping and reporting in ERP systems (e.g. Technology One).

What We're Looking For

We need someone who shares our values of One, Respect, Accountability, Courage, and Resilience. The ideal candidate will have:

• Tertiary qualifications in Accounting, Finance or a related discipline, with progress toward CPA Australia or CA ANZ membership.
• At least two years' experience in financial accounting or asset management, preferably within a local government or regulatory environment.
• Strong understanding and application of Australian Accounting Standards, financial reporting obligations and internal control frameworks.
• Strong self-motivation and organisation skills, the ability to exercise professional judgement, make independent decisions and assist in policy and process improvements
• High-level analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail, accuracy in financial data reporting and quality assurance skills.
• Proficiency in financial systems and tools, including experience with ERP software (e.g. Technology One) and advanced Microsoft Excel capabilities.
• Ability to manage priorities, meet deadlines, and work autonomously and constructively in a team environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present financial information clearly to both financial and non-financial stakeholders.
• Knowledge of the Local Government Act 2009 and Local Government Regulations 2012
• Demonstrated understanding of the issues impacting Torres Strait Islander people together with the ability to communicate sensitively and effectively.

Other Requirement

• The preferred candidate may be required to apply for a National Police Certificate before appointment.

Applying:

Candidates will need to download the Position Description and submit a cover letter addressing the core Capabilities, Skills and Experience in the position description and an updated resume of how your knowledge, skills, experience, qualifications and personal attributes are most relevant to the position by Wednesday, 27 August 2025..

TSIRC is an equal opportunity employer, celebrating diversity and committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Contact Linda Tarsitano at or telephone:

Applications Close: 27 Aug 2025