Defence Finance and Administration Officer

Due to the security requirements of the position applications will only be accepted from citizens of New Zealand, Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States of America. Permanent residents of the aforementioned countries are not eligible to apply. Evidence of citizenship is required at time of application.

About the Australian Department of Defence

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

About the Position

Under limited supervision the Defence Finance and Administration Officer provides administrative and financial support in the Office of the Defence Advisor located at the Australian High Commission in Wellington.

The key responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct daily financial accounting and procurement for the Defence Section Wellington (DSW), including reporting and compliance; representational 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 a 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.
• Assist Defence Office Manager (DOM) with administrative tasks for securing leased properties. This includes preparation and submission of residential lease business cases (that satisfy DFAT lease requirements) to Defence’s Property Leasing department and/or other relevant services in Canberra.
• Establish and maintain property documents, files and the master lease register.
• Participate in the running of Defence Section ceremonies and events as required. Out of hours attendance is required from time to time.
• Manage AV and sound systems support for Defence Section ceremonies and events.
• Manage the Defence vehicle including annual warrant of fitness, registration and maintain the monthly Defence Vehicle logs.
• Provide backup diary management and administrative support for the Defence Adviser and Assistant Defence Adviser.

Skills/qualifications

• Accounting qualification or previous accounts experience
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office software, including Word and Excel, and the ability to use computerized/electronic file and information management systems.
• Driver’s license essential
• Prepared to be trained in the use of the High Commission basic AV and sound systems

This is a fulltime position, however part-time hours with the ability to work outside normal business hours when required, would be considered.

What we offer the successful candidate

• Annual salary NZ$62,340 plus KiwiSaver employer contribution equivalent to 6% of salary.
• Performance rewards
• Full time – 37.5 hours per week
• Complimentary use of staff gym, squash court and comprehensive leave entitlements
• A great team environment.

How to Apply

Applications including a one-page pitch and maximum two-page CV and proof of citizenship (eg: passport) should be emailed to [email protected]

Applications close NZT 10am 12 December 2022.