Council Services Manager (Based in Wadeye, NT)

West Daly Regional Council; Darwin; On-site; AUD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package based on experience + 0

12% Superannuation

Housing subsidy in Wadeye

Relocation assistance up to $5,000

6 weeks paid annual leave

Locality allowance $3,000 p.a.

Employee assistance programs

Permanent, full‑time local government

Work-life balance in a regional remote

Career development opportunities

Job summary

West Daly Regional Council seeks a Council Services Manager to lead a diverse team across Wadeye and surrounding communities. You will manage core services, programs and minor projects, ensuring safe, compliant operations and effective reporting.

The role requires strong leadership, local government experience and the ability to work cross-culturally with Aboriginal communities. A competitive salary package, relocation assistance, housing options and generous leave are offered.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a Local Government/similar role.
• Proven ability to manage multiple service delivery activities.
• Strong leadership and staff development capabilities.
• Sound strategic, analytical and financial planning understanding.
• Knowledge of Work Health and Safety principles and legislation.
• Ability to engage with Aboriginal communities and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead, coordinate and monitor delivery of core services, programs and minor projects.
• Supervise and develop a diverse workforce and culture.
• Build relationships with Aboriginal communities and government stakeholders.
• Support capacity-building of local Aboriginal employees in cross-cultural contexts.
• Monitor performance, reporting and documentation to meet targets.
• Ensure safe work practices and WHS compliance across operations.
• Oversee efficient use of resources and adherence to policies.
• Conduct staff appraisals and ongoing development.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategic planning

Analytical thinking

Cross-cultural sensitivity

Mentoring / staff development

Education

Tertiary or industry qualifications

Tools

Driver's Licence (NT)

White Card

Skid Steer

Backhoe

Front End Loader

Grader

Job description

Council Services Manager (Based in Wadeye, NT)

West Daly Regional Council covers approximately 14,000 square kilometres, located around 300–420 kilometres south-west of Darwin. We work alongside the communities of Peppimenarti, Palumpa and Wadeye to provide essential services, facilities and opportunities that support strong, safe and healthy communities.

Our vision is to work together to make a difference by creating places that are respectful, peaceful and safe. We are committed to walking alongside culture, country and people to build stronger communities through collaboration, local employment and meaningful opportunities.

About the role

Reporting to the Director of Service Delivery, the Council Services Manager is responsible for managing and coordinating Council's day-to-day service delivery operations within the community, while contributing to the implementation of Council's strategic direction.

You will lead a diverse team across several operational areas, ensuring services, programs and minor projects are delivered effectively, safely and in accordance with Council policies, procedures and funding requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, coordinate and monitor the delivery of Council's core services, programs and minor projects.
• Supervise, support and develop a diverse workforce, fostering a collaborative and positive team culture.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with Aboriginal communities, Local Authorities, government representatives and external stakeholders.
• Support the development and capacity-building of local Aboriginal employees in a cross-cultural working environment.
• Monitor operational performance, ensuring reporting requirements, documentation and performance targets are met.
• Promote a safe working environment and ensure compliance with Work Health and Safety requirements.
• Oversee the effective use of Council resources and ensure policies and procedures are followed.
• Conduct employee performance appraisals and support ongoing staff development.

To be successful in the role, you will demonstrate:

• Previous experience in a similar role within Local Government.
• Proven experience managing multiple service delivery activities and programs.
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to motivate, manage and develop diverse teams.
• Sound strategic, analytical and decision-making capabilities.
• An understanding of business and financial planning principles.
• Knowledge of Work Health and Safety principles and relevant legislation.
• A thorough understanding of the Local Government Act.
• Excellent communication, organisational and stakeholder engagement skills, including the ability to consult and negotiate sensitively and effectively with Aboriginal people.
• Strong computer skills and the ability to prepare clear, accurate reports.
• Current Northern Territory Driver's Licence.
• General Construction Induction Card (White Card).
• Plant and Equipment tickets (Skid Steer and Backhoe).
• Current National Criminal History Check, or the ability to obtain one.
• Working with Children (OCHRE) Card, or the ability to obtain one.
• Relevant tertiary or industry qualifications.
• Front End Loader and Grader tickets.

Why Join Our Growing Team?

• A generous salary package based on experience and qualifications + 12% Superannuation
• Locality allowance of $3,000 per year
• Subsidised housing available in Wadeye
• Relocation assistance up to $5,000
• 6 weeks paid annual leave
• Additional NAIDOC Day public holiday
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Permanent, full‑time local government employment
• Supportive team culture with long‑term career opportunities
• Excellent work/life balance giving you the opportunity to explore this iconic region and much more!

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander to apply for this role.

• Applicants must have the right to work in Australia

The West Daly Regional Council covers 14,000 square kilometres and is located about 300 to 420 kilometres south-west of Darwin. The area is mainly rural, with three Indigenous communities at Peppimenarti, Nganmarriyanga and Wadeye which are managed by West Daly Regional Council (Council).

Council’s vision is to work together to make a difference in the community by creating places that are respectful, peaceful and safe. The mission of Council is to walk alongside culture, country and people to build a stronger community and does it by working together, creating real opportunities and providing services and facilities that everyone can use.

The West Daly Regional Council covers 14,000 square kilometres and is located about 300 to 420 kilometres south-west of Darwin. The area is mainly rural, with three Indigenous communities at Peppimenarti, Nganmarriyanga and Wadeye which are managed by West Daly Regional Council (Council).

Council’s vision is to work together to make a difference in the community by creating places that are respectful, peaceful and safe. The mission of Council is to walk alongside culture, country and people to build a stronger community and does it by working together, creating real opportunities and providing services and facilities that everyone can use.