Maiem, Sew Ngapa! (Welcome)

Create impact beyond the office stretching across the sands and seas of the Torres Strait region.

Join one of the most remote – and unique – Australian Public Service (APS) agencies.

Welcome to the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA).

TSRA is the lead Commonwealth agency for Indigenous Affairs in Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait).

We’re the northernmost region of Australia, where beautiful red dirt Country meets turquoise waters.

Located in the nation’s far north between Cairns and Papua New Guinea, we support programs across the Torres Strait region, including for the 17 inhabited islands of the Torres Strait and the communities of Bamaga and Seisia on the Northern Peninsula Area.

We’re a federal government statutory body and operate under the direction of a community-elected board.

About the role

If you love APS standards – or citing the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (PGPA Act) – this may be your dream job!

TSRA is looking for a highly experienced, senior finance leader with a heart for people and mind for results – someone with integrity, ethics and strong governance background.

Working directly with our CEO (and reporting often to our Board), you’ll be a critical member of our Executive Leadership Team.

In this hands-on role, you’ll lead all things finance, including budget, accounting and procurement. Plus get into the weeds with our systems, processes and templates.

Help us advise on and achieve strategic initiatives, investments and business needs – as well as meet legislative regulatory compliance.

You will be self-motivated and work with our diverse workforce to solve complex issues often unique to our remote region.

In addition to your comprehensive government finance experience, you’ll help us identify and introduce business improvements and innovation to be the very best we can be.

With positive experience working alongside First Nations staff and communities, your legacy will include mentoring plus upskilling staff, teams and executives in finance.

No two days will be the same, but each challenge brings opportunity to make a positive, lasting impact with our staff, communities and region.

About you

We’re looking for a results-driven individual who can balance policies and procedures with practical action and advice.

The successful applicant will have proven experience working in partnership with First Nations communities.

Degree and CA or CPA – plus current membership in CPA Australia or Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand is required.

You will have a keen aptitude for strategic thinking and possess political acumen to quickly build internal and external relationships.

A proven leader, you’ll have the natural ability to build trust and respect at all levels.

You’re also known for your integrity, probity and sound judgement, along with a sharp focus on results.

This role offers the chance to be based in Cairns, though preference is given to candidates residing in the Torres Strait, specifically Thursday Island or Horn Island.

About us

We think locally and act globally.

Since 1994, TSRA has provided a voice from the region to local, state, national and international levels.

Following more than 30 years of advocacy, it’s an exciting time to join us during TSRA’s #SeasonsOfChange with a new CEO, Chair and Board.

Our team of 150+ staff includes a strong local workforce – 84% of staff identify as Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people.

Our staff code switch between English, traditional Torres Strait languages and creole.

We’re one of the region’s largest employers with 3 offices on Thursday Island and 13 ranger sites, supported by a small office in Cairns.

We are proud of our region, communities, histories and culture.

Important: On Fridays we wear floral.

We offer:

A diverse, vibrant and culturally rich workplace – on Fridays we wear floral.

Competitive wages, attractive remuneration package and leave entitlements.

Recognition of local and state government balances such as sick leave and long service.

15.4% superannuation.

Benefits under our Enterprise Agreement include:

Retention bonuses

Leave types including annual, personal, cultural, long service and paid parental leave

Paid Christmas shut down

Annual healthy lifestyle reimbursements

Help with relocation and travel costs, depending on role and location.

Generous career, study and professional development options.

Who can apply?

In Australian Government language, this position is ‘Identified’. This means the role has strong involvement in issues relating to Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal people.

Anyone can apply, but candidates must understand the issues affecting Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal people with the ability to work and communicate respectfully with our people and communities.

We strongly encourage Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal people to apply.

How to apply

Don’t miss this rare opportunity! Apply directly and download the full candidate pack at www.tsra.gov.au/jobs by 11.30pm AEST Sunday 24 August 2025.

Looking for other opportunities with us? Join our employment register at www.tsra.gov.au/jobs

Like our region, our workplace is diverse.

TSRA employs a range of roles from admin, finance, corporate, project management, media and communications to rangers, language leaders, cultural advisors, scientists, climate change experts and marine biologists.

Follow us on social media to learn more.

#SeasonsOfChange

Au esoau, Koeyma Eso, thank you