Senior Finance Officer

About the role

The Senior Finance Officer plays a key leadership role in ensuring the financial integrity, operational effectiveness, compliance and reporting of the Council's finance function. The role includes financial reporting, budgeting, working with procurement, grant and contract management, and continuous improvement initiatives. This position provides direct support to the Management Accountant and Director of Corporate and Financial Services and is responsible for coaching junior finance staff, including the Finance and Payroll Officer.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports and ensure compliance with internal and external reporting standards, local government regulations, and internal policies.

• Assist in annual budget preparation, forecasting, and financial planning processes.

• Monitor expenditure against budget and provide variance analysis and recommendations.

• Ensure compliance with relevant financial legislation, grant requirements, and reporting frameworks.

• Maintain accurate general ledger records and manage internal control procedures.

• Ensure all general ledger accounts are reconciled monthly.

• Support the annual audit process and contribute to financial year-end processes.

• Provide oversight, guidance, and coaching to the Finance and Payroll Officer.

• Liaise with internal departments to provide financial and procurement advice.

• Assist in the identification and implementation of process improvements related to finance and procurement procedures.

About you

• Tertiary qualifications in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related discipline.

• Demonstrated experience in financial management (5 years) and reporting in a local government or public sector context.

• Strong understanding of procurement legislation, contract management, and audit processes.

• Proven experience supervising or mentoring finance staff.

• High-level interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage a wide range of staff and stakeholders effectively.

• High-level proficiency with financial and reporting software systems.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.

• Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.

• Strong commitment to ethical standards and continuous improvement.

What we offer

At Groote Archipelago Regional Council, we are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment that enables our employees to thrive. We offer a range of benefits, including:

• Competitive salary and superannuation

• 6 weeks annual leave and 17.5% leave loading

• Professional development opportunities

• Opportunity to contribute to a newly established regional council

• Meaningful work supporting remote communities across the Groote Archipelago

About us

Groote Archipelago Regional Council (GARC) is a newly established local government authority dedicated to serving the diverse communities of the Groote Archipelago, areas of Groote Eylandt and Bickerton Island. Guided by principles of transparency, accountability, and community engagement, the Council’s focus is one of collaboration and inclusion with residents, Indigenous groups, and various stakeholders to address the unique needs and aspirations of the archipelago's population through a focus of Local Decision Making. By fostering economic growth, enhancing community well-being, and promoting cultural awareness, the Groote Archipelago Regional Council strives to create an inclusive, vibrant, and sustainable future for all its residents.

With a strong focus on Local Decision Making and community engagement we offer a rewarding and fulfilling work environment for our employees.

How to Apply

To apply for this opportunity, please visit our website and follow the instructions on how to apply.

To be considered for this position, applicants must address the Selection Criteria outlined in the Position Description. A full copy of the Position Description is available on our website.

https://groote.nt.gov.au/senior-finance-officer

Applications close Thursday, 27th August 2026. Applications will be assessed as they are received, and the position may close earlier if a suitable candidate is identified.

For further information or a confidential discussion, please contact Kayelene Rynne, Director Corporate and Financial Services, at ••••@groote.nt.gov.au or on 04•• ••• 930.