Payroll & Finance Officer

About Ngwala

Ngwala Willumbong is a leading provider of culturally safe and effective support services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We are committed to supporting individuals affected by alcohol and other drug misuse, providing them with pathways to recovery through holistic and culturally appropriate rehabilitation programs.

Employing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People at Ngwala is essential to maintaining culturally aligned services. We STRONGLY encourage Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander people to apply for this role and others as they become available.

About the Role

The Payroll & Finance Officer leads the end‑to‑end payroll function and provides high‑level support across core finance operations. This role ensures accurate and compliant payroll processing via Employment Innovation, oversees a small team, and contributes to financial administration including accounts processing, reconciliations, and reporting. Working closely with the Finance Manager, the Payroll & Finance Officer supports the integrity of financial systems and drives continuous improvement across payroll and finance processes.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Processing & compliance

• Provide leadership and oversight of payroll operations, including supervision of Payroll staff, review of payroll outputs, and ensuring payroll reporting reconciliations, and compliance obligations are completed accurately and on time.
• Ensure payroll practices comply with the Fair Work Act, National Employment Standards, Awards/EBAs, ATO requirements, and superannuation legislation.
• Prepare payroll documentation for internal and external audits.

Finance Operations Support

• Manage and oversee the Accounts Payable function, including supervision of Accounts Payable staff, monitoring workflow, reviewing creditor reconciliations, and ensuring accurate accounts payable reporting and payment processing.
• Assist with accounts payable and receivable, including invoice processing and payment runs.
• Address and resolve general AP/AR inquiries in a timely manner
• Perform monthly bank reconciliations to support accurate financial reporting
• Financial reporting – Support preparation of month‑end journals, accruals, and financial schedules.
• Maintain accurate financial records and support system improvements.
• Cross‑functional collaboration HR and Finance to ensure alignment between payroll and financial reporting.

Stakeholder Support & Communication

• Employee Support by responding to payroll and finance queries with professionalism and clarity.
• Provide expert advice on entitlements, leave, remuneration changes, and award interpretation
• Internal relationship management Build strong working relationships across the organisation.

General Duties

• Be available to take up additional responsibility as directed by Executive Team
• Attend and participate in internal and external meetings.
• Understand and follow Ngwala policies and procedures.
• Participate in performance appraisals.

Skills & Experience

• Knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal culture and commitment to the Aboriginal community
• Relevant tertiary qualification in accounting, finance, HR, or related field (desirable).
• Excellent Excel and database entry skills;
• Experience using MYOB and Employment Hero is highly desirable
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills;
• Extensive experience in payroll operations, with exposure to finance functions.
• Demonstrated experience supervising or mentoring staff.
• Good organization and time management skills
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a multi skilled team
• Skills in working independently, with initiative and as a team member
• Willingness and ability to work within and contribute to the vision, purpose and core values of the organization.
• Proficiency in computer skills, including the Microsoft Office suite and client management systems.
• Competent in using a mobile phone, apps, and all aspects of computer operation.
• Compassion and a willingness to learn.

Mandatory Requirements

• Current Victorian Driver’s License
• National Police Certificate (not older than 3 months)
• Victorian Employment Working with Children Check

What We Offer

• Full-Time role
• SCHADS Social and Community Services Level 4
• NFP Salary Packaging Benefits up to $15,900
• An opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
• A supportive and culturally inclusive work environment.
• Ongoing professional development and training.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about supporting individuals on their recovery journey and promoting cultural safety, we would love to hear from you. Please provide the following:

• A cover letter outlining why you would be a great fit for this role
• A resume which outlines your educational and employment background

For further information, please contact recruitment@ngwala.org.au

*Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit pre-employment checks including a Police Check (no older than 3 months), Victorian Employment Working with Children Check, Health Declaration and/or a medical check as well as right to work in Australia Check.