Governance Specialist

• Transformative opportunity in a newly established position.
• Fully remote, hybrid or onsite considered.
• Elevate your career within a highly regarded organisation.
• Attractive remuneration package which ranges between $1,583.88 - $2,141.42 per week plus 11% superannuation.
• Generous benefits, including five weeks of annual leave, long service leave after five years, flex leave arrangements, and more!

About us:

Walgett Shire Council proudly serves a diverse and unique region in the heart of outback New South Wales. Covering over 22,000 square kilometres, the Shire includes the towns of Walgett, Lightning Ridge, and Collarenebri, along with the villages of Carinda, Cumborah, Rowena, and Burren Junction, as well as expansive rural areas. With a population of approximately 7,000, the Shire supports key industries such as agriculture, grazing, grain handling, opal mining, and tourism.

Nestled at the junction of the Namoi and Barwon Rivers, Walgett is rich in history and natural beauty. Once a bustling paddle-steamer port, it is now the northern gateway to the iconic Darling River Run, offering breathtaking landscapes and a deep connection to Australia’s heritage.

Just an hour north, Lightning Ridge is famed for its vibrant opal mining culture and distinctive outback charm. Whether it’s fossicking for opals, exploring underground art galleries, soaking in naturally heated artesian springs, or enjoying the tranquility of river fishing, the region offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Life in Walgett Shire offers the best of outback living—open skies, a strong sense of community, and endless opportunities to explore. For more information about Walgett and the Lightning Ridge area, please click here.

About the role:

Walgett Shire Council is offering a unique opportunity to take on the newly created role of Governance Specialist. As a pivotal member of the Council's team, you will drive the development of the governance function, ensuring alignment with Council’s strategic objectives.

The Governance Specialist provides high-level support, advice, and coordination across Council's governance framework to ensure compliance with legislative and regulatory obligations, integrity in decision-making, and continuous improvement of corporate governance practices. 

This position plays a key role in maintaining and enhancing Council’s governance functions, including policy management, delegations and authorisations, public access to information Government Information Public Access (GIPA), and records management oversight. The Governance Specialist also coordinates service reviews, supports organisational reporting obligations, and works closely with internal stakeholders to embed good governance across Council operations. 

Working under limited supervision, the role requires a thorough understanding of local government legislation, exceptional analytical and communication skills, and the ability to influence and support change across the organisation

If you are passionate about leading change, influencing culture, and making a meaningful impact on both the organisation and the community, this opportunity is tailor-made for you.

About you:

• Demonstrated experience in corporate governance, risk, compliance, or policy advisory roles, preferably within local government or a similarly regulated environment.
• Detailed knowledge of legislative and regulatory requirements relevant to governance in the public sector, including the Local Government Act, GIPA Act, and State Records Act.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex legislation and apply it pragmatically across the organisation.
• Experience in managing policy frameworks, coordinating policy development, and providing strategic advice to senior stakeholders.
• High-level verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to prepare concise, accurate reports, policies, and correspondence.
• Ability to coordinate competing priorities, work independently under limited supervision, and deliver within tight timeframes.
• High level of discretion, integrity, and commitment to confidentiality and ethical conduct. 

At Walgett Shire Council, we understand that not every candidate will meet every criterion, and that is perfectly fine—your passion and potential matter most to us.

The full position description can be viewed by clicking here.

For further information or discussion about the position, contact our Interim General Manager, Andrew Brown, on 02 6828 6100 during business hours.

What we offer:

• A highly competitive total remuneration package between $1,583.88 - $2,141.42 per week plus 11% superannuation.
• Relocation assistance and subsidised housing to support your transition or travel to the region.
• Salary Packaging options to maximise your take-home pay
• Generous benefits, including five weeks of annual leave and long service leave after five years.
• Flex-time arrangements, promoting a healthy work/life balance.
• Professional development opportunities to support your growth and success.
• Employee Assistance Program available to support you and your family through all life’s challenges.
• Exceptional working conditions within a family-friendly and supportive environment.

How to apply:

To apply, follow the instructions below, where you will be diverted to our website and requested to complete the selection criteria and attach your resume and cover letter. All correspondence regarding your application status and interview will be forwarded via email.

1. Complete the information below as requested
2. Click ‘NEXT’
3. Attach your resume and cover letter
4. Click ‘NEXT’ and ‘CONFIRM’ 

A failure to answer selection criteria and to attach your resume will result in your application being rejected.

Further information regarding the online application process may be obtained by contacting Council’s People and Culture Team via email [email protected] 

Please Note: All correspondence regarding your application status and interview will be sent to you via email.

Closing date for applications:

Applications close at 9.00am on Thursday 17 April 2025.

Council reserves the right to close, withdraw or extend vacancies without prior notice.

Walgett Shire Council is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We encourage applications from people with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse persons, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, veterans, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.