Financial Accountant

Aurukun Shire Council

Cairns, Cairns and Far North QLD

Financial Accounting and Reporting (Accounting)

Full time

100,000 – 110,000 per year

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

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

11. Current C class Manual driver’s Licence desirable

12. 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,

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.

NOTE: Never make payment to any employer, person, company, contractor or agency to get hired for a Job.

Aurukun Shire Council E: hrmanager@aurukun.qld.gov.au For a confidential discussion of the role requirements please call on 0418 387 516