Business Administration Trainee
12-month fixed term contract
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.
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/parental 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
The Opportunity
Council is excited to offer a Trainee position in the Finance Services Department!This 12-month opportunity is perfect for anyone looking to start or change their career and gain meaningful administration experience while completing a Certificate III in Business (Administration).
You will be supported to build practical skills using systems like Outlook, Excel, Teams, and Council's internal tools, while learning about customer service, records management, and the important role Council plays in the community.
This traineeship is government-funded, and eligibility is required for appointment. Please complete the attached Eligibility Questionnaire and submit it as part of your application.
Key Responsibilities
As a Business Administration Trainee, you will be supported to develop valuable workplace skills in a professional and welcoming environment. Key responsibilities include:
* Providing friendly and professional customer service to both internal and external stakeholders;
* Answering phones and responding to enquiries in a courteous and helpful manner;
* Learning how to use a wide range of Council systems and programs, including Outlook, Teams, Excel, Word, customer request systems, procurement tools, and records management systems;
* Assisting with administrative tasks such as data entry, electronic filing, scanning, and document handling;
* Maintaining a clean and organised office environment;
* Supporting broader administrative and customer service activities across various teams;
* Participating in training activities and completing all coursework and assessments on time;
* Working cooperatively as part of a supportive team and contributing to a positive workplace culture;
* Gaining insight into the important role Council plays as the level of government closest to the community; and
* Building transferable skills in communication, organisation, and customer service that can support a long-term career in administration or local government.
Our Ideal Candidate
We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join Council as a Business Administration Trainee. This is a great opportunity to gain valuable skills and experience while working towards the attainment of a Certificate III in Business (Administration).
The ideal candidate is eager to learn, has good communication skills, is organised, and works well both independently and in a team. Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite is an advantage. This role is open to applicants of all ages, whether you're just starting out, re-entering the workforce, or seeking a career change (eligibility requirements must be met).
Please address each of the following criteria, using examples from school, work, or life experience. Shortlisting will be based on how well these criteria are demonstrated.
Key Selection Criteria:
* Willingness and ability to develop the skills required to provide administrative support in an office environment;
* Basic knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite, email, and internet use;
* Enthusiastic, positive, and motivated, with a strong willingness to support a small team;
* Demonstrated potential to develop strong verbal and written communication skills;
* Ability to build and maintain effective internal and external relationships to support service delivery standards; and
* Strong attention to detail and a proactive approach to taking ownership of tasks and seeing them through to completion.
Desirable Criteria:
* Completion of Year 12 or equivalent; and
* Current Queensland C Class driver’s license (minimum P1).
General Salary Information
Wages and Conditions of employment will be determined in accordance with the Order – Apprentices’ and Trainees’ Wages and Conditions (Excluding Certain Queensland Government Entities) 2003; Training Wage Award – State 2012; Queensland Local Government Industry (Stream A) Award – State 2017 and Council’s Certified Agreement 2023.
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.
How to Apply
To apply, submit your application online by clicking 'Apply For Job' and follow the steps. Please provide:
1. A cover letter
2. A current resume
3. Statement addressing the selection criteria
4. Trainee/Apprenticeship Eligibility Questionnaire
5. Most recent academic record
Applications close on ‘Friday 27 June 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 Chief Financial Officer, Michelle O’Toole on 07 4776 4777.
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