Senior Accountant

Are you an experienced accounting professional looking to take the next step in your career? Mackay Regional Council is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Accountant to join our Corporate Services team.

In this pivotal role, you will provide expert financial advice, planning, budgeting, and reporting support to council, ensuring effective and efficient financial management in line with council policies and objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyse financial data and provide specialist advice and recommendations across all council programs.
• Develop and maintain systems for effective financial management and business improvement.
• Create and review internal control procedures and financial policies.
• Contribute to the development and monitoring of major projects and assist with project management.
• Conduct investigations and reviews as requested by management.
• Prepare annual financial statements, work papers, and assist with audits.
• Support the preparation of council's annual budget and Annual Report.
• Apply comprehensive knowledge to drive business improvement outcomes.
• Provide high-level financial and accounting advice internally and externally.

Qualifications

Essential

• Tertiary qualifications in business, finance, commerce or accounting or equivalent.

Desirable

• Eligibility for membership to the Australian Society of Certified Practising Accountants or Chartered Accountants association.

Experience

Essential

• Significant practical accounting experience in project management or financial management.
• Experience in Local Government or a similar industry and the ability to apply this experience to a diverse organisation.

Desirable

• Experience with council computer systems and sub-systems.

Skills

Essential

• Highly developed ability to provide sound financial advice.
• Highly developed interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate to a wide range of people.
• Strong analytical approach to problem solving combined with the ability to demonstrate initiative.
• Advanced computer application skills in Microsoft Office suite, particularly Word and Excel based programs.
• Highly developed organisational skills with the ability to manage time effectively.
• Ability to adapt to changing work environments and/or conditions while maintaining a positive attitude and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Knowledge

Essential

• Detailed knowledge and understanding of accounting systems, computer concepts and programs.
• Detailed knowledge and understanding of Australian Accounting Standards.

Desirable

• Knowledge of the Local Government Acts and Regulations.
• Understanding of local government accounting procedures, guidelines and audit regulations.
• Knowledge and understanding of council policy, procedures and functions.
• Experience with council computer systems and sub-systems.

Why Join Us?

• Annual salary of $107,933
• Up to 18% superannuation (conditions apply).
• Choice of 4 or 5 weeks' annual leave with 17.5% leave loading.
• 9-day fortnight roster.
• May be eligible for salary sacrificing options.
• Membership to lifestyle benefits program including corporate discounts.
• Study and assistance programs for career development.
• Learning and career development opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Employee health and wellbeing initiatives.
• Active Social Clubs.

How to Apply

Applications close Thursday, 2nd October 2025.

Please submit your cover letter and resume.

***Important information for applicants:

To be considered for this position, all candidates must have the appropriate working rights for Australia, Please visit Mackay Regional Council - Careers at council webpage regarding International Applicant criteria. Your Australian work rights will be verified during the recruitment process.

Applicants who progress beyond the interview stage will be required to undergo a pre-employment process, which includes comprehensive Pre-Employment Medical Assessments (inclusive of Drug and Alcohol testing) and possibly a Criminal History Check.

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer, where all applicants are treated fairly and respectfully and have equal access to all available opportunities. At Mackay Regional Council, diversity is about creating a respectful and inclusive workplace that recognises our employees' unique contributions and perspectives, working together to deliver extraordinary results.