Financial Accountant

About the Organisation

Aurukun Shire Council plays a crucial role in leading the community and addressing the needs of its residents. The Council works closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and local businesses, to improve service delivery and create opportunities for the community it serves.

Key focus areas for the Aurukun Shire Council include community safety, governance, economic development, and preservation of cultural identity, environmental management, postal services, aged care and child care provision. Initiatives are developed and implemented in consultation with community members, ensuring their active participation and ownership. The Council strives to empower community members, promote self-determination, and build a sustainable and prosperous future for Aurukun.

About the Role

This role is based in Cairns with occasional travel to Aurukun.

Reporting to the Finance Manager the purpose of this position is to manage the Council's financial reporting requirements and to identify and implement efficiencies to Council's financial processes.

Key Accountabilities

Financial Reporting

·       Maintain Council's financial records in accordance with statutory requirements

·       Preparation of monthly Investment Portfolio report

·       Ensure month end journals are completed for month end reports

·       Preparation of annual financial reports in accordance with statutory requirements

·       Daily Bank receipting

·       Preparation of external reporting, including but not limited to FBT, GST, routine project/grant acquittals

·       General Ledger reconciliations as required

·       Assist with Council's Budget process as required

·       Liaise with auditors as required

Asset Accounting

·       Maintain Council's Asset Register in accordance with statutory requirements

·       Recording of depreciation in financial records in a timely manner

·       Liaise with relevant Council staff to ensure register is accurately updated

·       Liaise with external asset valuers to ensure register meets statutory requirements

Financial Process and Procedures

·       Identify and implement potential efficiencies in financial processes and procedures.

·       Document financial processes and procedures

·       Provide assistance and/or training to Council staff in Aurukun on financial procedures as required.

Other

·       Identify any skill shortages within Finance in conjunction with Finance Manager.

·       Liaise with external Government agencies as required to ensure Council's obligations are met

·       Liaise with external suppliers, as required, to ensure the smooth running of Council's business

·       Other duties as directed by the Finance Manager.

Selection Criteria

1.     Minimum 5 years related work experience in accounting in a supervisory role

2.     Minimum qualification Bachelor of Accounting or equivalent

3.     Studying towards CPA or CA professional qualification (favourable)

4.     Computer literacy particularly in Accounting software, and Microsoft Office Suite of programs

5.     Ability to work independently and as part of a team to achieve positive outcomes

6.     Working knowledge of legislation as it relates to Local Government Act and Regulations, Taxation (GST, FBT)

and Accounting Standards

7.     Knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, with ability to communicate

effectively and sensitively with Indigenous people.

8.     A high level of commitment to interact positively in a remote Aboriginal community

9.     Must be able to travel to Aurukun as required

1. Strong interpersonal and communication skills with ability to negotiate, conflict manage and diffuse volatile

situations

1. Current C class Manual driver's Licence desirable

2. Understanding of legislation, or ability to acquire legislative knowledge of Aurukun Shire Council Local Law

Benefits

Joining ASC means becoming part of an organisation with strong cultural values with a focus on providing exceptional services to, and for, the community. You will be offered;

• A salary of $100,000 to $110,000 depending on qualifications and experience plus superannuation
• 5 weeks annual leave, 3 weeks personal leave per annum
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

How to apply

Applications which include a Cover Letter addressing the selection criteria and Resume can be sent to;

Fran O'Dwyer People and Culture Manager, Aurukun Shire Council E:

For a confidential discussion of the role requirements please call on

Applications close 4pm Friday 19 September 2025.

Only applicants with the right to work in Australia will be considered for this role.

This role may be filled prior to the nominated closing date.