Finance Officer (Accounts Payable)
Full Time Permanent Position

Our Ideal Candidate
Following the retirement of a valued team member, we are seeking a reliable and detail-oriented finance professional with a strong understanding of accounts payable processes and systems. You will have experience in processing supplier invoices, preparing payment runs, and maintaining accurate financial records in line with Council policies and contractual obligations. Your ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external suppliers, manage competing priorities, and support month-end reporting will be key to your success in this role. Familiarity with TechnologyOne and a proactive approach to resolving issues will be highly regarded.

Our Council
Hinchinbrook Shire Council is proud to be one of the largest employers in the region, with a diverse team of around 200 people working across technical, administrative, operational, and senior management roles. We’re committed to creating a fair, flexible, and supportive workplace where our staff can thrive while enjoying the unique attractions and vibrant community life of Hinchinbrook. With benefits such as a nine-day fortnight for most roles, generous superannuation, and leave entitlements, we offer opportunities to grow your career while embracing the lifestyle you love. By joining us, you’ll be part of an organisation that values its people, promotes collaboration, and strives to make a lasting, positive impact on the Hinchinbrook community.

What Council Offers

• 72.5-hour fortnight with roster variations depending on the position (9-day fortnight - RDOs in accordance with Council policy)
• Up to 12.5% Superannuation employer contribution for contributing members
• 5 weeks annual leave plus 17.5% annual leave loading
• 15 days paid sick/carers leave
• Salary Packaging options
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Accredited Mental Health First Aid Officers
• Annual Flu vaccinations + Skin Checks
• Corporate Uniforms (annual allowance) and PPE supplied

General Salary Information
This position is classified as Level 3 Year 1 under the Hinchinbrook Shire Council Local Government Officers (Stream A) Certified Agreement.

The salary is $78,260 per annum plus superannuation. $41.51 per hour (effective from 8 October 2025).

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure invoices are correctly matched to purchase orders and approved in accordance with the delegation of authority.
• Prepare payment runs (e.g., EFT, cheque, BPAY) in line with agreed payment terms and facilitate weekly creditor payment processing to ensure timely payments of invoices.
• Reconcile the accounts payable subsidiary ledger monthly and prepare aged creditors reports for review.
• Reconcile supplier statements and follow up on outstanding items or discrepancies.
• Assist in month-end and year-end closing activities, including accruals and reporting.
• Work with other business units and the procurement team to resolve purchasing control issues.
• Identify opportunities to improve Account Payable processes and contribute to efficiency initiatives.

See the Position Description for a more extensive list of key responsibilities.

Key Selection Criteria
If our values resonate with you ‘Opportunity, Respect, Strength and Accountability’ and you possess the following qualifications and experience, read below about how to apply:

Mandatory

• Proven experience in an accounts payable or similar finance role;
• Strong understanding of accounts payable processes, general accounting principles, and internal controls;
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail;
• Well-developed numerical skills and knowledge of accounting procedures;
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of accrual accounting principles and procedures;
• Well-developed written and verbal communication skills, with a strong focus on customer service;
• Effective time management and organisational skills where the ability to meet strict deadlines is met;
• Demonstrated proficiency in the use of accounting software and MS Office programs including Word, Excel, and Outlook.

Desirable

• Knowledge and an understanding of the Local Government financial services;
• Experience in a similar role in Local Government financial services; and
• Completed or progression towards an appropriate accounting qualification or equivalent accredited Industry based training course (Certificate IV) or significant knowledge and skills gained through on the job training.

How to Apply
To apply, submit your application online by clicking 'Apply For Job' and follow the steps. Please provide:

1. A current resume
2. A cover letter addressing the “Our Ideal Candidate” section (max. 2 pages).

Applications close on Wednesday 22 October 2025, at 5:00pm AEST’

Applications that do not meet the above requirements may not be shortlisted. The advertisement will be closed either when a successful applicant is identified or on the application close date, whichever is sooner.

For More Information:
Thank you for your consideration and interest in this position. For a confidential discussion, contact Michelle O’Toole – Chief Financial Officer on 07 4776 4777

Our Region
Ingham is uniquely positioned just over an hour north of Townsville and approximately three hours south of Cairns and is within the tropical paradise of the Hinchinbrook Shire. With Ingham at its centre, the region is surrounded by rugged mountain ranges, giant waterfalls, the Great Barrier Reef, wild beaches and tropical islands. It’s a place where breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife, world-class fishing experiences, delicious, locally sourced food, inspirational art and 60,000 years of culture are all weaved into one incredible story: The Hinchinbrook Way.

The Selection Process
We welcome candidates to inform us of any adjustments they may need to ensure a supportive and inclusive recruitment experience and workplace environment. Hinchinbrook Shire Council is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people and disadvantaged job seekers to apply.

Celebrating the rich diversity of our community, we are dedicated to attracting and employing people who reflect the community we serve. We value and respect the unique contributions of our employees and are committed to fostering an inclusive and safe workplace where everyone is supported to reach their full potential.

Please note that only individuals with the right to work in Australia are eligible to apply. As part of the recruitment process, the preferred candidate will need to undertake a National Police Check and pre-employment medical assessments, which may include drug and alcohol testing, to confirm their ability to meet the role's inherent requirements.