FINANCIAL ACCOUNTANT | LOCAL GOVERNMENT | ABBOTSFORD VIC
Temporary contract | Mon-Fri 38 hrs/week | $68.66-$76.78/hr + super | Band 7
ABOUT OSBORNE RICHARDSON AUSTRALIA
At Osborne Richardson Australia, we specialise exclusively in the public sector, partnering with councils, departments, and statutory bodies nationwide for over 25 years. We connect skilled professionals with roles where their expertise drives meaningful outcomes for the community. On behalf of our government sector client, we are seeking an experienced Financial Accountant for this exciting temporary opportunity.
ABOUT THE ORGANISATION
Our client is a progressive inner‐metropolitan local government authority located in Abbotsford, VIC, committed to efficiently and effectively servicing its community to the highest standards. The organisation places a strong emphasis on protecting and enhancing the city's physical and social environment, while fostering a competitive, customer‐focused culture built on continuous improvement.
The Finance team sits within the Corporate Business & Finance division and plays a central role in the achievement of the Council's strategic goals. The team is committed to delivering sound financial management, transparent reporting, and high‐quality advice that supports community outcomes across the organisation.
ABOUT THE ROLE
This is a critical temporary engagement to support the Financial Accounting team through the end‐of‐financial‐year period, with existing staff currently engaged in ERP process documentation and Key User Training. You will step in as an experienced practitioner, ensuring continuity of statutory reporting, audit preparation, and financial integrity during this pivotal time.
Working closely with the Coordinator Financial Accounting, you will liaise across all levels of the organisation — including at the Executive level — as well as with external stakeholders such as auditors, the Australian Tax Office, Local Government Victoria, banking institutions, and the Victorian Grants Commission. The role demands sound independent judgement, the ability to apply specialised accounting procedures, and a practical, solutions‐focused approach to problem solving.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
* Prepare high‐quality annual financial statements and manage the full external and internal audit process, ensuring accurate and timely delivery.
* Ensure full statutory reporting compliance, including GST, FBT, and adherence to Australian Accounting Standards, the Local Government Act, and all relevant legislation.
* Contribute to the Annual Budget and Long Term Financial Plan; assist with monthly and quarterly management reporting for Branches, Committees, and senior leadership.
* Business partner with internal divisions, providing financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting support and commercial decision‐making advice to a range of stakeholders.
* Maintain the integrity and accuracy of financial systems and data, including general ledger reconciliations, Council's investment portfolio, and balance sheet reconciliations.
* Document and maintain up‐to‐date Finance policies and procedures, reviewing and streamlining systems to ensure responsive and compliant service delivery.
* Identify and recommend improvements to accounting processes, procedures, and system‐based techniques; contribute to strategic and operational Finance planning.
* Champion the organisation's sustainability principles — including environmental protection, social equity, and continuous improvement — through day‐to‐day financial activities.
KEY SELECTION CRITERIA
* Tertiary qualifications in Accounting, Commerce, or a related discipline, with CPA or CA membership (or working towards).
* Proven experience in statutory reporting and financial accounting including asset accounting, general accounting processes, taxation compliance, and audit management.
* Sound knowledge of Australian Accounting Standards, GST and FBT legislation, and the Local Government Act; local government experience highly regarded.
* Highly advanced Excel and data manipulation skills, with the ability to produce high‐quality, concise financial reports and technical advice.
* Experience using Technology One or a similar ERP/financial management system.
* Demonstrated business partnering capability with strong relationship‐building, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills across all organisational levels.
* Excellent time management, with the ability to independently prioritise and deliver in a fast‐paced environment of competing demands and tight deadlines.
* Strong attention to detail, problem‐solving ability, and a collaborative approach to resolving complex accounting and compliance matters.
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