Work Health & Safety Advisor

• Lead with Energy: Champion and inspire a proactive safety culture.
• Full-Time or Contract Position Available: A chance to shape the role to your strengths.
• Competitive Salary: $95K – $105K + Super + Subsidised Accommodation + Relocation Assistance.

Be a pivotal part of the team dedicated to the development of both employees and the community. In this role, you'll play a crucial part in ensuring the well-being and safety of everyone Council serve.

Closing Date: Monday 26^th August at 10AM | Based in Aurukun QLD

About the Region

The community of Aurukun is located on the north-west coast of the Cape York Peninsula, 178km south of the mining town Weipa and 811km (11hrs) from Cairns. Nearly the entire population live within the township.

The shire has an area of 7500sq. km and is bounded by the Holroyd River and Pormpuraaw Deed of Grant in Trust lands to the south, Cook shire and Archer Bend National Park to the east, the Gulf of Carpentaria to the west and Cook shire to the north. It has about 107 km of Gulf of Carpentaria coastline.

Situated in the heart of an Indigenous community, Aurukun is one of the larger communities in the Cape with a population of approximately 1400. Most residents are Traditional owners of the shire and surrounding lands. There are 5 spiritual clan groups: Apalech, Winchanam, Wanam, Chara and Puutch. There are 15 outstations that are occupied during the dry season, one feature in common with many other Indigenous communities is a very stable (immobile) population. Many Aurukun residents have little opportunity to move away from the area – many lack recognised education or training and to do so would also deprive them of their family and clan supports.

About Council 

The Aurukun Shire Council lies at the heart of a dynamic Indigenous community, playing an instrumental role in delivering vital services such as health, education, police, and welfare. Beyond these, the Council manages the local airport, banking, and postal operations, while also overseeing road and housing development and maintenance. With robust support from both State and Federal governments, we are staunchly committed to community growth, sustainability, and well-being.

Our overarching vision is to foster community development, champion well-being, and position Aurukun as a hub of opportunity and advancement. In line with this, we are collaborating with various government stakeholders, including Ministerial and Government Champions, to roll out a forward-thinking 4-point plan for Aurukun's future.

• Community safety

• Access to education

• Strengthening community

• Jobs and economic development

About the Position

Reporting directly to the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), as the WHS Advisor you'll be the torchbearer for cultivating a safe working environment. Through the promotion of sound safety practices and a health-conscious workplace culture, you'll ensure the Council not only meets but exceeds the expected standards. You will also support ASC Workers Compensation, ensure the return to work legal requirements are met and kick start the committee!

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with stakeholders on safety issues.
• Develop, monitor, and review training schedules and safety policies.
• Coordinate WHS meetings, audits, and safety compliance reports.
• Advise, coach, and educate our team on safety protocols.
• Ensure the smooth operation of workers' compensation and return to work programs
• Regularly inspect Work Camps for WHS compliance.
• Engage with external consultants for enhanced support.

Key Performance Indicators:

• Timely WHS inductions & training for all staff.
• Updated incident reports register and risk mitigation actions.
• Regular WHS Committee meetings.
• Consistent updates and management on Mango events.
• Monthly WHS review meetings with the CEO.

For a Full Candidate Briefing Document click HERE.

About You

You are a passionate WHS professional, whether seasoned in remote community settings or eager to embark on a unique journey in a culturally-rich environment like Aurukun. Your commitment to safety is unwavering, and you are driven to ensure that every individual benefits from the best WHS practices.

Your adaptability is one of your strongest suits. While experience in Indigenous communities can be a bonus, it's your genuine interest in embracing new cultures and environments that truly stands out. Perhaps you've always been curious about the beauty and challenges of remote areas, and you see this role as the perfect opportunity to merge your professional skills with personal growth.

Armed with technical know-how and a heart that respects and seeks to understand diverse perspectives, you're ready to be a beacon of positive change. Joining the Aurukun Shire Council means more than just a job; it's a chance to make a tangible impact in a unique community while immersing yourself in an experience of a lifetime.

Why this Position

Truly a hidden gem, this paradise is cradled by three major rivers with each branching out to weave a tapestry of waterways. From a bird's-eye view the landscape unfolds like a scene from a fantasy epic — lush, verdant forests stretching endlessly. A haven for every nature enthusiast!

• Impactful Work in a Unique Setting: This is a rare chance to fuse your WHS expertise with the vibrant tapestry of Aurukun's Indigenous community. Every day, your contributions will play a pivotal role in safeguarding a community deeply rooted in tradition and culture.
• Explore Aurukun's Natural Wonders: Nestled amidst the Gulf of Carpentaria's coastline and bordered by sprawling national parks, Aurukun offers a mosaic of breath taking landscapes. Experience the ebb and flow of its rivers, the tranquillity of its outstations during the dry season, and the serene beauty of its untouched terrains.
• Growth and Learning: Venturing into a remote area offers unparalleled personal and professional growth. Whether it's expanding your understanding of Indigenous cultures, honing your adaptability in diverse settings, or networking with a range of stakeholders, this role promises holistic development.
• Competitive Benefits: Beyond the fulfilling work and scenic views, you'll be rewarded with a competitive salary of $90K + Super + housing subsidy.

Embrace a role that's more than a job – it's an enriching journey, a chance to make a difference, and an opportunity to weave your own story into the vibrant narrative of Aurukun.

PEAK Services is working in conjunction with Aurukun Shire Council exclusively on this position. We offer local government expertise across a wide range of professional fields, providing tailored solutions for councils and other similar organisations. We work with our clients to deliver meaningful outcomes in recruitment and contracting services. 

How to Apply

Before you apply for this position, please read the Position Description carefully to assess your eligibility and suitability for the position. You will be required to answer a few questions that relate to the criteria on the online application below.  Please note that you cannot submit your application without attaching your resume.  A cover letter is not mandatory but may be added if so desired. When uploading your Resume or documents please ensure file names should only include 'A-z', '0-9', '.' and '-' characters.

PLEASE NOTE: Once you have commenced your application you cannot save and continue at a later stage. 

Applications will close on Monday 26th August at 10pm. Please ensure you leave adequate time to complete your application before the closing date and time. 

For a confidential conversation, please call Cole Berman on 0428 642 119 at Peak Recruitment Services.