About AHL

Our purpose is to provide safe, culturally appropriate and affordable accommodation for First Nations people who need to be away from home to access services and economic opportunities.

Across its network of hostels, dedicated Aboriginal Hostels Limited (AHL) staff provide accommodation and meals for residents in a supportive workplace, assisted by local First Nations service providers and referral agencies.

AHL also supports the Australian Government's efforts to improve economic outcomes for First Nations people. By purchasing goods and services from First Nations businesses at every opportunity, we help support a more inclusive economy. We are proud to be one of the largest employers of First Nations people in the Australian Public Service, First Nations employees make up approximately 50% of our workfroce.

The key duties of the position include:

AHL is looking for Cooks, Kitchenhands, Night Attendants and Housekeepers for the Northern Territory region.

Under the general direction of the Hostel Manager, all hostel worker positions will provide high-quality care and support within a residential setting for First Nations people.

Cooks/Kitchenhands

The Cook position will do the preparation of the set menu meals and day-to-day operation of the kitchen in accordance with food standards and relevant legislation.

The Kitchenhand will assist with the food preparation, ordering and monitor the food and kitchen supplies as required.

Duties include but not limited to:

• Prepare meals in accordance with AHL’s set menus, Food Safety Standards Australia and other relevant legislation.

• Stock take management - rotate, receive and monitor food and kitchen supplies.

• Ensure the kitchen and equipment is cleaned to standard.

• Prepare and clean the dining rooms for residents.

Night Attendants

The Night Attendant position will assist with the monitoring of the night security of the hostel in accordance with AHL’s policies and procedures.

Duties include but not limited to:

• Maintain the security of premises, monitor premises to preserve order and protect property.





• Monitor and authorise entrance and departure of residents, staff and visitors.

• Respond to emergencies.

Undertake administrative tasks:

• Maintain data on AHL's online reservation management system.

• Write reports on daily activities and irregularities, such as equipment or property damage, theft, presence of unauthorised persons, or unusual occurrences.

Undertake general domestic duties:

• Perform other general cleaning duties to ensure hostel grounds, gardens, windows, and the property are kept clean, tidy and clear for residents.

• Ensure rooms are ready for housekeeping the following day.

• Clean amenity areas.

Housekeepers

The Housekeeper position will assist with maintaining a clean, safe and welcoming environment for residents and staff in accordance with organisational standards and relevant legislation.

Duties include but are not limited to:

• Ensure the hostel is serviced and cleaned to a high standard.

• Ensure the adequate supply of cleaning products, linen and other relevant items are available and stored appropriately.

• Ensure all rooms are checked regularly for repair and maintenance requirements, and that appropriate notifications are reported to the Hostel Manager or Assistant Hostel Manager.

Eligibility

• Be an Australian Citizen.

• Undergo a Satisfactory National Criminal History Check (prior to engagement).

• Hold and maintain Working with Children Check in NT (prior to engagement)

• Meet Fitness for Duty requirements (prior to engagement).

• All Hostel Workers are required to be in good physical health, and will be required to walk, lift and carry due to the nature of the positions.



These positions work a flexible schedule and must be able to move continuously during working hours. Shift work may apply.

• Hold or obtain relevant qualifications.

Essential Qualifications and Training:

While hostel worker positions require qualifications and training, if the applicant does not have the training or qualifications required, there is an opportunity to obtain this within your first 6 months of employment.

Night Attendant

• First Aid Certificate

• Emergency Warden Training

Cook

• Food Safety Handling Certificate

Housekeeper

• Chemical Handling Training through an AHL’s approved supplier (currently Jaysol)

Notes

How to apply

For further information including what skills we are looking for, please review the position description - Work with us | Aboriginal Hostels Limited

- Complete the Application Form available here Work with us | Aboriginal Hostels Limited
- Updated Resume (no more than 3 pages)

Email your resume and completed application form to ••••@ahl.gov.au before 11:59pm AEST on Tuesday, 15 September 2026. Please include your name and the job reference (VN-0772118) in the subject of your email.

Getting to know the Aboriginal Hostels Limited

Our purpose is to provide culturally safe and affordable accommodation for First Nations people who need to be away from home to access services and economic opportunities. Across our network of hostels, dedicated AHL staff provide accommodation and meals for residents in a culturally safe and supportive environment. We have a strong network of relationships with other organisations, including First Nations organisations. This network both refers residents to AHL and works alongside AHL to support residents to meet their needs. We are proud to be one of the largest employers of First Nations people in the Australian Public Service, First Nations employees make up over 40% of our workforce. Working with us will provide you with a chance to contribute to improving the quality of life and economic opportunities for First Nations people.

📌 Hostel Workers (Katherine)
🏢 Aboriginal Hostels
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