About Sydney Writers' Festival Sydney Writers’ Festival is one of the world’s leading and most beloved literary institutions. It is a place for readers, writers and thinkers to share ideas, tell stories and celebrate literature. About this role The Finance Officer plays a key role in ensuring the financial integrity of Sydney Writers' Festival by delivering accurate, timely and efficient financial administration across the organisation.

Reporting to the Head of Finance, and working closely with the broader Sydney Writers' Festival team, including Heads of Department, the Finance Officer is responsible for maintaining the Festival's day-to-day financial operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, bank reconciliations and general bookkeeping. The role provides the operational foundation of the finance function, enabling the Head of Finance to focus on financial reporting, forecasting, strategic analysis and organisational performance. Working closely with the Head of Finance, the Finance Officer contributes to strong financial governance, continuous improvement and high-quality internal customer service.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing finance function while gaining exposure to budgeting, reporting, grant-funded projects and the financial management of one of Australia's leading cultural organisations. The role is suited to an experienced Finance Officer or Bookkeeper, although Sydney Writers' Festival welcomes applications from candidates looking to further develop their finance career within a supportive environment. Employment is part-time (approximately 15.2 hours per week), with flexibility to increase hours during peak Festival periods, including up to 30 hours per week during the annual Sydney Writers' Festival.

The Sydney

Writers' Festival office is located at The Rocks, with versatile hybrid working arrangements are available following an initial onboarding period.

Selection

Criteria





Essential Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping (or equivalent qualification or relevant experience), or currently working towards completion.

Experience in accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll processing.

Experience completing bank, credit card and balance sheet reconciliations. Sound understanding of Australian GST, BAS and payroll obligations. Working knowledge of Xero. Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Excel skills.

Demonstrated ability to learn new systems and adapt to changing priorities. Excellent attention to detail with a consistently high level of accuracy. Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities.

Clear written and verbal communication skills. High level of integrity, professionalism and discretion when handling confidential financial information.

Desirable Experience working in the arts, cultural or not-for-profit sector.

Experience supporting grant-funded organisations.

Experience working in a small or medium-sized organisation with broad finance responsibilities. An interest in literature, culture and the arts.

Personal Attributes Takes pride in producing accurate, high-quality work. Reliable, organised and accountable. Curious, proactive and eager to learn. Collaborative and approachable, with a positive attitude.

Solutions-focused and committed to continuous improvement. Comfortable working in a dynamic environment with changing priorities. A copy of the position description is also available on our website. To apply for this role, please send your resume and a cover letter demonstrating how you meet the selection criteria.

Applications should be addressed to the Head of Finance, Kate Chalker and be sent to [email protected]. Applications close Thursday 20 August, 5pm.

Sydney

Writers’ Festival encourages applications from all backgrounds, communities, and industries, and are committed to having a team that is made up of diverse skills, experiences and abilities.

📌 Finance Officer (Sydney)
🏢 Sydney Writers' Festival
📍 Sydney