Independent Member - Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee

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.

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

About the opportunity

This committee provides oversight and advice to the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley on financial and performance reporting, risk management and internal controls. Interested individuals should have a strong background in finance, risk, governance, or audit, and a commitment to the Shire’s ethical and sustainable development.

The committee’s term of reference is available on our website https://www.sdwk.wa.gov.au/council/council-meetings/audit-risk-and-improvement-committee.aspx  This role will be in place until the ordinary elections in October 2025, when a review will occur.

Role Overview

The Committee is established under Section 7.1A of the Local Government Act 1995 (the Act) to advise Council on matters relevant to its Terms of Reference. The Committee is to provide guidance and advice to the local government, in relation to:

• Risk management and internal controls.
• External and internal audits.
• Status of audit recommendations.
• Financial management.
• Compliance with laws, regulations, standards, and best practice guideline

Remuneration

The role includes remuneration aligned with the State Administrative Tribunal for Band 2 local governments, of $450.00 per meeting (maximum allowable amount), and independent members will be required to comply with the relevant provisions of the Local Government Act 1995. Travel and accommodation will be provided for Independent Members if required.

How to apply

Expressions of Interest should be submitted, in the form of a covering letter setting out skills and experience, a brief resume  and contact  details  for two professional  referees.  Applications  must be  marked:  Independent Membership and be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, Shire of Derby / West Kimberley, PO Box 94, Derby WA 6728

Expressions of Interest must be received by 5.00pm 3 October 2025.

Key Skills and Experience

The Independent Members will preside over committee meetings and will be required to have experience and knowledge in the following areas:

• Internal audit;
• Risk management;
• Financial management/reporting;
• Information and Systems Technology;
• Audit Committee practices; and
• Understanding of complexities associated with regional local government.

Additional desirable skills and experience include:

• Strong leadership qualities to guide effective committee discussions;
• Analytical skills to assess complex information;
• Knowledge of the local government sector;
• Familiarity with meeting procedures and Local Law Standing Orders; and
• Awareness of emerging risks such as climate adaptation and cyber security.

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Must not be employed by the Shire of Derby / West Kimberley;
• Must not be an Elected Member of the Shire of Derby / West Kimberley or;
• Must not be related to any person in criteria 1 and 2.