Australian High Commission
New Zealand

Defence Finance Officer

AGENCY

Department of Defence

POSITION NUMBER

WN019

POSITION TITLE

Defence Finance Officer

CLASSIFICATION

LE3

SECTION

Defence

REPORTS TO (TITLE)

Defence Office Manager

SALARY

NZ$ 71,648.88 plus KiwiSaver

 

About The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

The Australian High Commission is the official representative of the Australian Government in New Zealand.  We provide a range of services to the public, including consular and passports and cultural relations services.  We also act on behalf of various Australian Government authorities by representing Australia’s interest to local, regional and multilateral government and business organisations in New Zealand.

The primary role of Defence is to defend Australia and its national interests to advance Australia’s security and prosperity.  The Department of Defence works alongside its partners and allies to grow international Defence relations and Defence co-operation.

About the position

This is an anticipated vacancy, with the successful candidate expected to commence in December 2026.

Under limited supervision the Defence Finance and Administration Officer provide administrative and financial support to the Defence Section Wellington (DSW) located at the Australian High Commission in Wellington.

Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain an Australian security clearance and must therefore be a citizen of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the USA or the United Kingdom.

 

Key responsibilities of the position include but are not limited to:

  • Conduct daily financial accounting and procurement for the DSW, including reporting and compliance, funding applications, and in conjunction with the New Zealand Defence Force Finance office, the financial management of the Cook Islands account.
  • Assist the Defence Office Manager with preparation of annual budget submissions and funding requests throughout the year.
  • Maintain the DSW expenditure spreadsheet and complete monthly reconciliations.  Provide month-end report for the Defence Adviser.
  • Process and acquit personnel services, allowances, conditions of service and reimbursement claims of Australian Defence personnel serving in New Zealand.
  • Conduct comprehensive file management of finance related information.
  • Process supplier invoices and reimbursements accurately, within delegated authority levels, and in a timely manner in accordance with policy and legislation
  • Assist the Defence Office Manager with administrative tasks for securing leased properties.  This includes preparation and submission of residential lease business cases.
  • Participate in the running of Defence Section ceremonies and events as required.  Out of hours attendance is required from time to time.
  • Maintain monthly Defence vehicle logs.
  • Provide back-up diary management and administrative support for the Defence Adviser, Assistant Defence Adviser and Defence First Secretary.

 

Qualifications and Experience

  • Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain an Australian security clearance and must therefore be a citizen of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the USA or the United Kingdom.
  • Accounting qualifications or previous accounts experience
  • High proficiency in Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, and the ability to use computerized / electronic file and information management systems.
  • New Zealand Full Drivers’ licence is essential.
  • Flexible team player willing to assist colleagues.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Excellent time management and a strength in administration and organisational skills.

 

What we offer the Successful Candidate

  • Annual salary of NZD $71,648.88, plus employer KiwiSaver contributions equivalent to 6.5% of salary
  • Comprehensive leave entitlements include uncapped sick leave and an additional 2 days of Public Holidays (on top of the 12 NZ Public Holidays)
  • Performance-based rewards opportunities
  • Full-time position, 37.5 hours per week but open to part-time hours for the right candidate.
  • Complimentary access to the staff gym and squash court
  • A supportive and collaborative team environment

 

How to Apply

This is an expected vacancy with employment to commence in December 2026.

Applications including a one-page cover letter and maximum two-page CV should be emailed to [email protected]

A merit list will be created and used for future vacancies. 

 

Applications close NZDT 10 AM, 15 September 2026.