Job Description
Original Power's mission is to build the power, skills, capacity and collective capability of our people to genuinely self determine what happens in our communities and on country.
We are a growing organisation with a base in Melbourne and staff working from home across Australia.
The Position
The Head of Finance works closely with the executive team, project leads and operations team to ensure that all financial aspects of Original Power are compliant, sustainable, organised and clear.
They will have an integral role in supporting teams to have appropriate financial information including projections, forecasting, actuals and reporting.
With projects on a state and national scale, we value effective and continuous business improvements in financial and reporting systems across the organisation.
The Head of Finance leads on financial management, budgeting, financial reporting and forecasting including a quarterly report to the Original Power Board with regular reporting to the executive team.
They will manage external accounting contractors and ensure all staff have a clear understanding of processes, systems and the overall financial health of their programs, and the organisation.
About You
You are a qualified accountant (or have a relevant qualification) and experienced financial manager with a proven track record in managing the finances of a dynamic, fast-moving and growing organisation.
You think strategically, act practically and love designing workable solutions to make sure everyone in the team understands the numbers at all times - for planning, decision-making and to move forward with confidence.
You're exceptional on the financial details, love to share your skills and knowledge on finance and can write a narrative to accompany a budget that is easy to read and engaging.
You can communicate complex financial information in simple ways.
You're passionate about self-determination and knowledge sharing and understand that working in an NGO is a fast-moving, agile environment that requires flexibility and calmness.
Ideally, you have experience working in First Nations cultural contexts or at the very least, understand and appreciate cultural competency.
Your skills and experience include :
Extremely organised person with a track record of balancing competing demands and meeting milestones in a fast moving context
Competent in engaging team members and colleagues in understanding and building financial capabilities
Able to balance the need to operate independently and work effectively as part of a team
Maintaining a high standard of integrity and good character with the ability to handle sensitive matters tactfully and discreetly
Demonstrated experience using online financial management software and liaising with relevant technical support and administrative staff
Problem-solving approach to overcome blocks, find new solutions and make improvements where required
Strong communication skills particularly to talk through complex issues and help in resolving any issues
Significant experience in developing budgets including forecasting and reporting
Interest in and ability to speak confidently at team meetings, Board and Steering Group settings to represent the organisation in sharing financial information.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities
Oversee all the financial responsibilities for Original Power including the organisation as well as large national initiatives (new and existing)
Ensure all financial and reporting systems and processes are clear, fit-for-purpose and able to be utilised for every setting - regional, remote, urban and online
Mentoring and managing a small group of keen and excellent Operations staff
Provision of accurate and timely financial reports
Responsible for all finance functions including credit cards, reconciliations, reporting, accounts payable / receivable and ATO returns
Coordinate year and month end including engagement / management of external auditors
Work with all project teams and units to prepare annual budgets, including ongoing reporting, insights and forecasts
Lead the ongoing forecasting process and continually improve financial planning systems to enable the board and senior managers to plan with clarity and confidence
Perform in-depth analysis and provide recommendations relating to financial impacts for scenarios as identified
Manage the ongoing improvement of financial processes, systems and reporting
Management of payroll and payroll related activities across all states and territories
Develop and present financial reports to the board, executive, project leads and budget holders in a way that clearly communicates key information in simple ways
Develop, implement and maintain financial policies and practices to ensure sound financial management, good governance and compliance with relevant accounting standards
Oversee and approve financial reporting for donors, investors and fundraising proposals as required
Oversee the independent audit for Original Power and associated entities
Ensure compliance and risk management across purchasing and contract fulfilment processes
Develop strong internal and external stakeholder relationships including external contractors, consultants and representatives from funders and investing organisations
Identify and drive operational efficiencies across the organisation.
Selection Criteria
Experience & Demonstrated Skills - Required
At least five years' experience in a role that requires financial management, oversight and reporting skills, ideally with a qualification in accounting or finance
Great communication skills for working in collaboration with project teams, board and stakeholders
Sound skills in online accounting programs and systems including Xero
Solid administration skills and organising capabilities
A track record of being able to articulate complex financial scenarios and translate into easy-to-understand information and recommendations
Experience working in First Nations cultural contexts or at the very least, a strong understanding and appreciation for cultural safety
Sound knowledge of Australian Accounting Standards.
Qualifications & Skills - Highly Desirable
Experience working in a not-for-profit organisation in Australia
Experience in establishing financial systems and reporting for new entities.
Interested in applying?
We are accepting expressions of interest until
pm, Sunday 10 August
To express interest, please include :
A cover letter outlining your skills, experience and interest in the role.
Copy of your current CV.
If you have any questions about the role or Original Power, please reach out to Jade Lillie, Chief of Staff on
To apply, submit your application through Ethical Jobs portal, or send your expression of interest to :
First Nations applicants are encouraged to apply.
Applications close 11 : 59 pm Sunday 10 August
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Job Details
Posted Date:
December 12, 2025
Job Type:
Finance and Insurance
Location:
Melbourne, Australia
Company:
Original Power
Ready to Apply?
Don't miss this opportunity! Apply now and join our team.