Make a meaningful impact behind the scenes of life-changing youth programs
About Us
At Kokoda Youth Foundation, we exist to empower young Australians to build resilience, character, and leadership through transformative experiences.
Our work spans youth programs, outdoor education, and events—each grounded in service, accountability, and purpose.
Behind every program is a team ensuring integrity, accuracy, and sustainability. This role is central to that mission.
Why This Role Matters
As our Accounts & Payroll Officer, you will be trusted with the financial integrity of the organisation. Your work ensures our people are paid accurately, our obligations are met, and our programs remain financially sound—allowing frontline teams to focus on supporting young people.
This is more than a transactional finance role—it requires judgement, discretion, and a commitment to doing things properly.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Accountability & Accuracy
* Process accounts payable and receivable across all organisational portfolios
* Complete daily reconciliations of bank and subsidiary accounts
* Prepare BAS, GST reporting, and support audit processes
* Maintain accurate financial records, including donations, events, and program income
* Contribute to budget preparation and financial reporting for leadership
Payroll Integrity & Compliance
* Collate, verify, and process fortnightly payroll across staff and casual workforce
* Maintain accurate leave records and employee data
* Ensure compliance with awards, legislation, and reporting requirements
* Respond to payroll queries with professionalism and discretion
Operational & Team Support
* Provide financial insights and reporting to portfolio and event managers
* Support grant applications and organisational projects
* Contribute to stock control and inventory management
* Assist in maintaining a professional and welcoming head office environment
* Provide support at key organisational events, including occasional after-hours work
What Success Looks Like
* Financial records are accurate, reconciled, and audit-ready
* Payroll is processed reliably, confidentially, and without error
* Stakeholders trust your judgement, responsiveness, and attention to detail
* Opportunities to improve systems and automate processes are identified and implemented
* You contribute positively to team culture through reliability, service, and integrity
About You
You bring both technical capability and strong personal accountability:
* Minimum 3 years’ experience in accounting or bookkeeping roles
* Strong proficiency in Xero and financial systems
* High attention to detail and organisational discipline
* Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines
* Strong communication skills and confidence working with internal stakeholders
* Integrity and discretion when handling sensitive financial and payroll information
You demonstrate:
* Courage by addressing discrepancies and speaking up when something isn’t right
* Endurance through consistent, reliable delivery in a high-responsibility role
* Mateship by supporting colleagues and contributing to a positive team environment
* Sacrifice by prioritising organisational needs and outcomes over convenience
Child Safety & Wellbeing Commitment
Kokoda Youth Foundation is committed to the safety, wellbeing, and empowerment of all children and young people.
All staff are required to:
* Maintain professional boundaries at all times
* Identify, report, and respond to risks or concerns
* Comply with child-safe policies, procedures, and legislation
* Child-safe behaviours are a condition of employment and are actively monitored and enforced.
Cultural Safety & Inclusion
We are committed to creating a culturally safe, inclusive, and respectful workplace. This includes actively listening, learning, and embedding practices that support equity, dignity, and belonging for all people.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants
We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply. We are committed to providing culturally safe recruitment processes, workplace support, and opportunities for growth and leadership.
What We Offer
* A purpose-driven role contributing to real impact for young people
* A supportive, values-driven team environment
* Opportunities to contribute beyond your role through projects and events
* Exposure to diverse organisational functions across programs and operations
* Ongoing development and the opportunity to improve systems and processes
How to Apply
Submit your application via SEEK, including your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your experience and why this role aligns with your values.