Finance Officer - Rates

Port Macquarie Hastings Council

About The Opportunity

At PMHC every employee plays a part in ensuring we work together to achieve positive outcomes for our community. To help us achieve this we are seeking motivated

Finance Officer – Rates to join our Revenue team and support the delivery of essential rating and revenue services to our community.

In this role the successful candidate will play a vital role in the maintenance of Rate accounts and will provide administrative support across a range of revenue functions.

This will include maintaining information relating to rates and charges, issuing relevant certificates, and providing excellent service delivery for both internal and external stakeholders. The ability to learn new systems and processes, manage competing priorities, and maintain a high level of attention to detail is essential for success in this role.

What a Typical Day Looks Like

As a Finance Officer – Rates, your day will be varied and rewarding. You may:

  • Process and maintain rates and charges, including adjustments for waste, sewer, stormwater, and water availability
  • Assist customers with enquiries, resolving issues efficiently and professionally
  • Assist with payment enquiries and monitor alternative payment arrangements.
  • Maintain data and provide system support for third party provider portals, such as email Notices and Payable payment platform
  • Process pensioner rebates, refunds, and account adjustments
  • Update property ownership details, addresses, and ratepayer records
  • Prepare and process Section 603 Certificates and Notice of Sale documentation
  • Assist with end-of-financial-year processes and audit requests
  • Collaborate with the Water and Debtors teams to support broader revenue functions

What You’ll Bring

To thrive in this role, you will demonstrate:

  • Strong attention to detail and a high level of accuracy in data entry and financial processing
  • Excellent customer service skills with the ability to communicate clearly and professionally
  • Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines
  • High level problem-solving ability, including knowing when to escalate complex enquiries
  • Teamwork and collaboration, while also being confident working independently
  • Adaptability and a positive attitude in a fast-paced environment
  • A commitment to maintaining confidentiality and compliance with policies and procedures

Essential Requirements

  • Certificate III (or higher) in Finance, Business, or a related field, or equivalent experience
  • Experience using computerised financial systems
  • Intermediate skills in Microsoft Word and Excel
  • Well-developed written and verbal communication skills
  • Proven ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines
  • High-level data entry and keyboard skills with strong accuracy

Experience working within Local Government or with Authority Enterprise Software and Content Manager would be highly regarded, but is not essential.

Remuneration And Benefits

Employment Type: Full time, Permanent 35 hours per week

Salary (exclusive of super): Starting salary of $66,577 per annum with the opportunity for competency-based progression plus 12% superannuation

Benefits

  • Flexible work arrangements - hybrid working and flexi-time
  • Discounted gym membership through membership to Fitness Passport
  • Career development opportunities
  • Renovated light filled open plan office
  • Annual salary increase as per the Local Government (State) Award 2023 plus annual salary review
  • Long service leave after 5 years
  • Generous employee assistance program
  • Salary packaging options available through Salary Packaging Australia and Maxxia
  • Recognition through our annual awards ceremony celebrating and rewarding staff achievements

About The Port Macquarie Hastings Region

The region is one of Australia's most enviable locations. We boast a stunning hinterland, kilometres of pristine beaches, national parks, playgrounds, sporting facilities, restaurants, galleries, theatres and a genuine community vibe. The Mid-North Coast is perfect for hiking, surfing, camping, fishing, exploration, sports, arts, theatre, food and wine.

Questions?

If you would like to know more about this opportunity or have any questions about the role please contact Miranda Hudson, Rates Team Leader on (02) 6581 8356.

Interested in Applying?

Click 'Apply now' to create an account and complete the application form. You'll be asked to answer questions relating to the position description and upload a copy of your resume and cover letter.

Documents should be submitted in PDF format.

Applications Close: Sunday 14 June 2026 at 11:30pm

At Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the vibrant community we serve—where everyone feels welcome, respected, and empowered to thrive.

We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, veterans, people with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process or in the workplace, please contact us at ***email_hidden***. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Notes

Suitable candidates may be placed on a talent pool or eligibility list for future identical, or similar positions for a period of 12 months.

Please upload documents in PDF format.

We often ask our preferred applicants to complete pre-employment checks. This may include: Reference Checks; National Criminal Police Check; Medical Assessment; Qualification Verification; Working with Children Check Verification.

PMHC's recruitment notification process is primarily via system generated emails. Please ensure your email is correct before submitting an application to avoid missing crucial updates and outcomes. Email communication notifications are used for but not limited to: application received, interview booking tools, confirmation of interview, request for references/more information, delay notifications, testing/assessments (aptitude/psychometric/industry specific) and application outcomes (unsuccessful before or after interview).

Please regularly check your 'junk mail' or ensure our email address [email protected] and Pulse email [email protected] is set to 'trustworthy'.

Port Macquarie Hastings Council adheres to the principles of a child safe organisation and is committed to the care and protection of all children and young people.