Overview
Aboriginal Hostels Limited (AHL) is looking for reliable and motivated Hostel Workers to join our team as Cooks, Housekeepers and Night Attendants, to help create a safe, clean, and welcoming environment at Top End hostels located in Katherine, Darwin, Nhulunbuy and Tennant Creek.
Base pay range: A$59,520.00/yr – A$64,877.00/yr. Generous shift penalties apply for work after hours, weekends and public holidays. You will also receive 15.4% superannuation.
AHL encourages diversity, welcoming all candidates and valuing the unique skills and perspectives each person brings. We provide flexible working arrangements to support people returning to the workforce, parents with care arrangements, and also offer weekend and night shifts for those requiring irregular shift arrangements. This is a great opportunity to be part of important work that supports First Nations peoples across Australia, with opportunities to further your career within the Australian Public Service (APS).
Multiple roles are available, including:
- Prepare and serve meals for residents.
- Prepare and clean dining areas for residents.
- Document a daily Food Safety Plan in accordance with the Food Safety Act.
- Manage stock – including receiving, rotating, and monitoring food and kitchen supplies.
- Maintain a clean, safe and hygienic kitchen environment.
- Provide property security, monitor and protect premises, and ensure the safety of residents.
- Complete general administrative tasks and record daily security activities.
- Attend to housekeeping duties, including upkeep of common rooms and grounds.
- Monitor and authorise entry and exit of residents, staff, and visitors.
- Respond to emergencies when required.
- Perform daily cleaning tasks to maintain high cleanliness standards throughout the hostel.
- Maintain adequate cleaning supplies and linen, ensuring appropriate storage.
- Regularly inspect rooms for repairs and maintenance needs and report issues to the Hostel Manager or Assistant Manager.
- Support the team with general housekeeping and ad hoc cleaning tasks as required.
The Ideal Candidate
You will have an understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and the ability to communicate respectfully and effectively. While experience in a similar industry is desirable, what matters most is your ability to work effectively and positively as part of a team.
Night Attendants: You must be available to work night shifts and be capable of managing emergency situations when they arise. Night Attendants receive generous shift penalties for their after hours work.
Housekeepers: Your shifts will be Monday to Friday — perfect for someone seeking stable weekday work with weekends free.
Cooks: Structured meal plan roster with no split shifts.
Competitive Pay & Benefits : A$59,520 – A$64,877 per year plus 15.4% superannuation and generous leave entitlements.
Career Growth : Opportunities for career progression within the organisation.
Supportive Team Environment : Be part of a friendly and inclusive team where your contribution is truly valued.
Employee Assistance Program : Access to confidential, professional counselling services for employees, their partners, and dependents.
Generous shift penalties : Generous shift penalties apply for eligible work. Some hostels may also qualify for remote location assistance.
Night Attendant (Penalty Rates)
- Attractive penalty rates for evening and overnight shifts – earn more for working less traditional hours.
- Opportunity to work independently in a calm, quiet environment.
- Ideal for night owls or those seeking flexibility outside standard hours.
- Valuable experience in residential care and hostel operations.
- Consistent daytime hours – no weekends or night shifts.
- Outstanding for those seeking work-life balance and routine.
- Supportive team environment with training provided.
- Make a meaningful impact by helping maintain a safe and welcoming space for residents.
Cook / Kitchenhand (No Split or Night Shifts)
- Straight shifts only – no split shifts or late nights.
- Enjoy predictable hours and a stable routine.
- Work in a collaborative kitchen environment with a strong focus on community service.
- Develop or expand your hospitality skills in a culturally diverse setting.
General Benefits Across All Roles
- Government employment with job stability and entitlements.
- Opportunities for career progression within AHL and the APS.
- Training and development provided – no formal qualifications required for entry.
- Be part of a team that supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
- Locations across the Top End – potential for travel and relocation support.
How to Apply
Complete the Application Form available from our website: Work with us | Aboriginal Hostels Limited. Email your current resume and the completed Application Form to by 11:59pm AEST on 5 October 2025. Please include your name and the job reference (VN- ) in the subject line of your email. For any questions about the role, contact Denise O'Neill at or via
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📌 Cooks, Housekeepers, and Night Attendants
🏢 Aboriginal Hostels
📍 Darwin