The Shire of Derby/West Kimberley encompasses the towns of Derby, Fitzroy Crossing, Camballin, and 54 Aboriginal Communities throughout the region. Living in Derby and Fitzroy Crossing offers a relaxed and vibrant lifestyle, with a wide range of leisure activities such as exceptional fishing, boating, sightseeing, community events, and sports. The locals are known for their warm and welcoming nature, making it easy to feel at home.

This region is also home to breathtaking and untouched wilderness areas, including the iconic Buccaneer Archipelago, Gibb River Road, Fitzroy River, and Geikie Gorge. If you’re eager to experience the beauty of the wet season and immerse yourself in the rich Indigenous culture, this is the perfect opportunity.

At the Shire, we value the unique backgrounds, experiences, and contributions that each person brings to our community. We encourage and celebrate diversity, welcoming applications from Aboriginal people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, women, individuals of all ages, people with disabilities, and culturally and linguistically diverse individuals. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the community in which we live.

Benefits of Working in the Shire:

• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with access to nature and outdoor activities, allowing for a fulfilling work-life balance.
• Cultural Enrichment: Gain a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture by working closely with local communities and participating in cultural events.
• Natural Beauty: Be surrounded by stunning landscapes and explore some of Australia's most pristine wilderness areas during your time off.
• Community Spirit: Join a close-knit, welcoming community where you can form lasting friendships and feel a strong sense of belonging.
• Personal Growth: Experience living and working in a unique environment that fosters both personal and professional development.
• 5 Weeks Annual Leave: Benefit from an extended leave package, giving you more time to relax and recharge.
• Up to 7% Council-Matching Super Contributions: Boost your retirement savings with generous employer contributions.
• Novated Leasing: Enjoy the convenience and tax advantages of novated leasing for your vehicle.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access professional support for your mental health and well-being.
• Free Pool Entry: Enjoy free access to the local pool following your probation period, encouraging an active lifestyle.

If you're ready to embark on a rewarding adventure in one of Australia’s most beautiful and culturally rich regions, apply now!

Are you an experienced Executive Assistant ready to bring your organisational expertise and leadership support to a unique and dynamic role? Join the Shire of Derby West Kimberley as the Executive Assistant to the Director of Community Planning—a pivotal position that blends high-level administrative coordination with meaningful impact on community and governance outcomes in a regional context.

Why this role is unique:
This position is more than traditional executive support; it offers the opportunity to work closely with the Director and senior leadership to drive effective community planning initiatives tailored to the distinctive needs of the Derby West Kimberley region. You will manage complex priorities, support council processes integral to local governance, and foster strong relationships across diverse teams and external stakeholders including local communities, government agencies, and contractors. Your proactive approach, priority management, and ability to lead administrative coordination will be key to the department’s success.

Key strengths we’re looking for:

• Exceptional organisational and multitasking skills to manage complex scheduling and adapt to fluctuating demands in a fast-paced environment.
• High level of discretion, integrity, and professionalism in handling confidential information.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to liaise effectively with senior leaders, councillors, community groups, and regional stakeholders.
• A proactive mindset focused on continuous improvement of administrative processes and the effective use of systems and technology.
• Supportive leadership style with experience mentoring team members and fostering a collaborative, positive workplace culture.
• Flexibility to occasionally work outside standard hours if required to support council meetings and community functions specific to the directorate.

This role is based in Derby with a competitive salary range of $108,600 to $117,300 (inc generous allowances) plus super and 5 weeks of annual leave. If you are ready to bring your skills, initiative and organisational expertise to a role that makes a real difference in the Derby West Kimberley community, we want to hear from you. Apply today and be part of shaping a positive future for our Shire.

To Apply

To apply submit a cover letter of no more than three (3) pages, addressing the selection criteria (listed below) and a current resume with two relevant professional references through the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley career portal https://www.sdwk.wa.gov.au/work-with-us/working-at-the-shire.aspx

POSITION DESCRIPTION: Executive Assistant to Director Community Planning (alternatively email [email protected]

Essential

• Demonstrated high-level organisational and time management skills, with proven attention to detail and capacity to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven experience providing high-level executive and administrative support, with the ability to exercise initiative, discretion, and sound judgement in decision-making.
• High level of honesty, integrity, and professionalism, with experience in handling sensitive and confidential information in accordance with relevant legislation and policies.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear and concise correspondence, reports, meeting agendas, and minutes.
• Highly developed interpersonal, relationship-building, and negotiation skills with the ability to liaise effectively across all organisational levels, with elected members, community stakeholders, and external agencies.
• Demonstrated proficiency in the advanced use of a range of software applications and business systems, including Microsoft Office suite, SharePoint, records management systems, and contemporary communication platforms.
• Proven ability to review, develop, and improve administrative systems and processes to enhance operational efficiency and compliance.
• Flexibility to work outside ordinary business hours as required to assist with Council and committee meetings, community functions, and official events.
• Current WA “C” Class Driver’s Licence.
• Current satisfactory National Police Clearance.

Desirable

• Demonstrated experience working within a local government environment, with knowledge of relevant legislation, governance processes, and procedural requirements.
• Experience working in regional or remote communities with an understanding of unique social, cultural, and logistical considerations.
• Experience preparing grant applications, business proposals, or similar documents that support community and organisational initiatives.
• Relevant qualification in business administration, governance, project management, or another related field, or significant training and experience in a comparable role.