Finance Manager | Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council

Peak Services; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 122,000 - 149,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation

Nine-day fortnight

Locality allowance

Five weeks annual leave

Job summary

Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council is seeking a Finance Manager to lead the finance function, including payroll, accounts payable and receivable, governance, budgeting and statutory reporting. You will ensure strong financial controls and compliance while managing audits and stakeholder relations.

The role offers up to AU$135K plus super, accommodation and a nine-day fortnight within a Cape York lifestyle. Five weeks annual leave and locality allowances accompany the package.

Qualifications

• Requires tertiary qualifications in finance or related field.
• Strong leadership and staff management experience.
• Experience in local government finance or public sector governance preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership across the Council's finance function, including payroll, AP, AR, governance, statutory reporting and budgeting.
• Ensure strong financial controls, accurate reporting, and regulatory compliance.
• Manage audit processes and advisory relationships with stakeholders.

Job description

Finance Manager | Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council

• Drive financial sustainability and governance for a high-performing Aboriginal Shire Council.
• Lead a capable and stable finance team while partnering closely with the ELT
• Up to $135K + super + accommodation + nine-day fortnight

Lead Financial Stewardship. Shape Strategy. Enjoy a Cape York Lifestyle.

The Council Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council is a progressive and community-focused entity serving a vibrant Aboriginal community on the western coast of Cape York Peninsula, just 13 kilometres from Weipa. With an annual budget of approximately $21.6 million, a workforce of more than 100 employees and a strong commitment to financial sustainability, good governance and service excellence, Council is dedicated to delivering meaningful outcomes that improve the lives of its community members. Steeped in cultural heritage and surrounded by stunning natural beauty, Napranum offers a unique lifestyle where professional impact and community connection go hand in hand. Supported by modern community facilities and easy access to the services and amenities of Weipa, this is an opportunity to be part of a Council that is continuing to invest in its future.

The Position

Reporting to the Director Corporate Services, the Finance Manager will provide leadership across Council's finance function, overseeing payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, governance activities, statutory reporting, budgeting, financial compliance and audit management. You will play a critical role in ensuring Council maintains strong financial controls, delivers accurate reporting and meets all legislative and regulatory obligations.

About You

You are a finance professional who combines strong technical capability with practical leadership skills. Whether you are an experienced Finance Manager or Senior Accountant looking for the next step, or a local government finance specialist seeking a new challenge, you bring experience leading teams, preparing financial reports and working within complex operational environments. With relevant tertiary qualifications you have a sound understanding of accounting standards, financial management and compliance requirements. Equally important is your ability to build positive relationships, mentor staff, communicate effectively and adapt to a diverse and community-focused environment. Resilient, collaborative and solutions-focused, you enjoy variety and thrive in roles where no two days are the same.

Why This Role

This is a rare opportunity to join a stable and supportive Council where your expertise will be valued and your leadership welcomed. Rather than stepping into a "fix-it" environment, you'll inherit an established team and have the opportunity to continue developing systems, people and financial practices while working alongside an approachable and empowering leadership group. Council is offering a salary of up to $135K + Super, accommodation tailored to individual circumstances, a locality allowance, five weeks annual leave and a nine-day fortnight. Combined with the lifestyle benefits of living in one of Australia's most unique and beautiful regions, this role offers both professional fulfilment and genuine work-life balance. Whether you're looking to advance your career in local government or bring your expertise into the sector, this is an opportunity to make a lasting impact while enjoying an exceptional quality of life.

Applications will close at 10pm on Monday 5th October 2026.