Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer – Palm Island 

• Leadership role in Australia’s largest Indigenous Community
• One of Queensland’s most unique and stunning locations.
• Up to $250K + super + Vehicle + 5 weeks leave + relocation assistance

About Council

Run by the Mayor and four Councillors, Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council is seeking a visionary and community-focused Chief Executive Officer to guide Australia’s largest Indigenous community through a period of exciting transformation. Located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, Palm Island offers a unique opportunity to lead in a culturally rich, naturally stunning environment.

The Position

As CEO, you will report directly to the Mayor and work closely with Councillors, Traditional Owners, and Stakeholders to deliver high-impact outcomes across infrastructure, housing, tourism, and economic development. You will oversee Council operations, champion transparency and governance, and lead initiatives that support housing, infrastructure, tourism, and local employment. build workforce capability and foster a culture of integrity and innovation. This is a leadership role with purpose - where your decisions will help shape a future that honours tradition while embracing innovation.You’ll guide Council through a period of transformation, overseeing infrastructure, housing, eco-tourism, and economic initiatives. With a strong focus on transparency, governance, and workforce development, you will help unlock Palm Island’s full potential and create pathways for generational change.

About You

This role is ideal for a strategic leader who values integrity, collaboration, and is seeking the chance to shape a legacy of impact—driving strategic growth, cultural empowerment, and sustainable development in Australia’s largest Indigenous community.

More specifically you will have:

• Demonstrated success in executive leadership within local government, Indigenous community governance, or a comparable complex organisation.

• Proven capability to lead culturally diverse teams and work respectfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

• High-level communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills including the ability to build trust with elected members and external partners.

• Advanced skills in corporate planning, budgeting, and performance management.

Why this Role?

• Live and lead in paradise – enjoy a fully furnished island home, a salary of up to $250K + Super + Vehicle + Accommodation and Relocation Assistance + the opportunity to work in one of Queensland’s most picturesque and culturally significant communities.

• Create generational change – drive infrastructure, eco-tourism, and local business development that builds a sustainable and inclusive future.

• Lead with heart and impact – build trust across Council, staff, and community while championing cultural awareness, transparency, and strategic growth.

• This is a growing council with ambitions for economic growth via tourism. With cultural diversity across the island, you will embrace this in plans moving forward.

• Drive the Tourism Masterplan Activation – Glamping, fishing, walking trail, community markets, marina, events. Open Palm Island to visitors and let others experience this idyllic Island and its many attractions.

• Financially viable council

• Easy access to Townsville with several flights a day together with a ferry service.