Operations Manager Primary Health Care Centres

Apunipima Cape York Health Council is a community controlled Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander health service. Servicing the communities of Cape York, with the main office is located in Cairns, Apunipima delivers public health care, and social and emotional well-being care, to community members. Being a part of the team at Apunipima means helping us deliver essential services as well as building capacity in communities to manage their own health care needs.

There is a genuine occupational requirement under Section 25 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 (Qld), for this position to be filled by an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person. The position is therefore only open to Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants to ensure that cultural protocols and customs are met.

About the Opportunity

The Operations Manager, Primary Health Care Centres is responsible for leading the operational management of Apunipima’s Primary Health Care Centres to ensure the delivery of high quality, comprehensive and client focused primary health care to the people of Cape York. This position works closely with the Executive Manager, Clinical Services and Primary Health Care Centre Managers to support the delivery of effective and comprehensive services aligned with the Apunipima Model of Care, Apunipima Way and local service plans.

To be successful in the role you will need;

• Demonstrated strategic leadership and change management capability, with experience motivating and inspiring multidisciplinary teams while driving organisational, service, and team development in complex environments.
• Extensive understanding of service delivery in remote and complex settings, including the impact of social determinants on health and wellbeing and the ability to build productive partnerships with stakeholders and communities.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with a proven ability to monitor performance, evaluate outcomes, implement continuous improvement initiatives, and achieve sustainable quality results.
• Sound knowledge of contract management, program compliance, and performance evaluation, including planning, monitoring, reporting, and ensuring contractual and organisational requirements are met.
• Strong cultural capability and commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community control, with demonstrated understanding of historical and contemporary issues affecting communities, the ability to communicate respectfully in line with cultural protocols, and willingness to travel throughout Cape York as required.

Mandatory Requirements:

• Qualifications in Management, Health Management, Human Services or Behavioural Sciences.
• Previous team management experience
• Current Queensland Drivers Licence
• Blue Card (Working with Children Card)
• Australian Federal Police Check

Desirable

• Experience providing operational leadership and support in a primary health care service.

Why work for us?

• Competitive salary $134,887 per annum
• Modern facilities and resources
• 5 weeks annual leave & 17.5% leave loading
• Generous salary packaging of up to $15,900 per year 
• Induction, professional development and learning opportunities
• EAP program 

Our Culture

Apunipima, meaning "united - all in one" in Injinoo Ikya, was established in 1994 to advocate and support the health needs of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of Cape York. Over the years, Apunipima has expanded to become a key primary health care provider across Cape York.  Guided by the "Apunipima Way," Apunipima is committed to service by the people, for the people, upholding the right to self-determination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We acknowledge and respect the voices of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of Cape York and ensure our services are culturally responsive, informed, respectful, and ethically sound. 

How to Apply

Don't miss the opportunity to join Apunipima. If you're interested, please submit your application, including your resume and cover letter. Applications close on 4th September 2026.

If you would like to have a confidential discussion about this role, or if you have any questions, please contact hr@apunipima.org.au 

Apunipima Cape York Health Council is an equal-opportunity employer