Executive Assistant to Director Community Planning

The Shire of Derby/West Kimberley encompasses the towns of Derby, Fitzroy Crossing, Camballin, and 54 Aboriginal Communities throughout the region. Living in Derby and Fitzroy Crossing offers a relaxed and vibrant lifestyle, with a wide range of leisure activities such as exceptional fishing, boating, sightseeing, community events, and sports. The locals are known for their warm and welcoming nature, making it easy to feel at home.

This region is also home to breathtaking and untouched wilderness areas, including the iconic Buccaneer Archipelago, Gibb River Road, Fitzroy River, and Geikie Gorge. If you’re eager to experience the beauty of the wet season and immerse yourself in the rich Indigenous culture, this is the perfect opportunity.

At the Shire, we value the unique backgrounds, experiences, and contributions that each person brings to our community. We encourage and celebrate diversity, welcoming applications from Aboriginal people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, women, individuals of all ages, people with disabilities, and culturally and linguistically diverse individuals. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the community in which we live.

Benefits of Working in the Shire:

• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with access to nature and outdoor activities, allowing for a fulfilling work-life balance.
• Cultural Enrichment: Gain a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture by working closely with local communities and participating in cultural events.
• Natural Beauty: Be surrounded by stunning landscapes and explore some of Australia's most pristine wilderness areas during your time off.
• Community Spirit: Join a close-knit, welcoming community where you can form lasting friendships and feel a strong sense of belonging.
• Personal Growth: Experience living and working in a unique environment that fosters both personal and professional development.
• 5 Weeks Annual Leave: Benefit from an extended leave package, giving you more time to relax and recharge.
• Up to 7% Council-Matching Super Contributions: Boost your retirement savings with generous employer contributions.
• Novated Leasing: Enjoy the convenience and tax advantages of novated leasing for your vehicle.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access professional support for your mental health and well-being.
• Free Pool Entry: Enjoy free access to the local pool following your probation period, encouraging an active lifestyle.

If you're ready to embark on a rewarding adventure in one of Australia’s most beautiful and culturally rich regions, apply now!

The Shire of Derby/West Kimberley is looking for an experienced Executive Assistant or admin professional who is eager to use their skills to make a real difference. This is a key position that combines providing high-level administrative support with the opportunity to contribute to important community and governance outcomes in a regional setting.

Why this role is unique:
This role provides the opportunity to work directly with the Director and senior leaders to shape community planning initiatives tailored to the unique needs of the Derby/West Kimberley region. You’ll manage key priorities, support essential council activities, and foster strong relationships across teams and external partners, ranging from local communities to government agencies and contractors. Your proactive mindset, ability to balance competing demands, and leadership in administrative coordination will be crucial to the department’s success.

Key strengths we’re looking for:

• Well-developed organisational and multitasking skills, with the ability to manage busy schedules and adjust to changing demands.
• Trusted to handle confidential information with integrity and professionalism.
• Clear and confident communication skills, with the ability to build positive relationships and work effectively with senior leaders, councillors, community groups, and regional stakeholders.
• A proactive approach, with an interest in improving administrative processes and making good use of systems and technology.
• Supportive leadership experience, including mentoring colleagues and helping to create a collaborative and positive team culture.
• Willingness to occasionally work outside regular hours when needed to support council meetings or community events within the directorate.

This role is based in Derby with a competitive salary range of $108,600 to $117,300 (inc generous allowances) plus super and 5 weeks of annual leave. We want your amazing skills, initiative and organisational expertise! Apply today and be part of shaping a positive future for our Shire.

To Apply

To apply submit a cover letter of no more than two (2) pages, addressing the selection criteria (listed below) and a current resume with two relevant professional references through the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley career portal https://www.sdwk.wa.gov.au/work-with-us/working-at-the-shire.aspx

This role provides the opportunity to work directly with the Director and senior leaders to shape community planning initiatives tailored to the unique needs of the Derby/West Kimberley region. You’ll manage key priorities, support essential council activities, and foster strong relationships across teams and external partners—ranging from local communities to government agencies and contractors. Your proactive mindset, ability to balance competing demands, and leadership in administrative coordination will be crucial to the department’s success.

POSITION DESCRIPTION: Executive Assistant to Director Community Planning (alternatively email recruitment@sdwk.wa.gov.au for a copy)

Essential

• Strong organisational and time management skills, with ability to handle multiple priorities and meet deadlines while keeping a close eye on detail.
• Experience providing executive and administrative support, with the confidence to use initiative, handle matters appropriately, and make considered decisions.
• A high level of integrity and professionalism, with experience managing sensitive and confidential information responsibly and in line with relevant requirements.
• Clear and effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare correspondence, reports, agendas, and minutes that are easy to follow.
• Well-developed interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with the ability to work cooperatively at all levels, including with elected members, community stakeholders, and external organisations.
• Confident in the use of a wide range of software and business systems (such as Microsoft Office, SharePoint, records management systems, and online communication tools).
• Ability to review and improve administrative systems and processes to make things work more smoothly and efficiently.
• Willingness to work outside normal office hours when needed, to support Council meetings, community functions, or official events.
• Current WA “C” Class Driver’s Licence.
• Current National Police Clearance.

Desirable

• Experience in local government, with an understanding of relevant legislation, governance, and procedural processes.
• Experience working in regional or remote communities, with awareness of social, cultural, and logistical considerations.
• Experience preparing grant applications, business cases, or similar documents that support community or organisational projects.
• Relevant qualifications in business administration, governance, project management, or a related field, or equivalent training and experience.