Ararat Rural City Council is located 2 hours northwest of Melbourne and is a growing regional centre, a trend which is predicted to continue as more people pursue a tree-change lifestyle with all essential services at their fingertips.

We recognise that our employees are the key to making a difference and delivering our vision for a vibrant and sustainable community. Council is committed to serving our community in a friendly and professional way and offers fantastic employee conditions including a 9-day fortnight, flexible working options, a health and wellbeing program, professional development opportunities, and much more.

We are an equal-opportunity employer committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion, allowing our staff to thrive and grow.

About You : Qualifications & Experience

Business Administration qualifications relevant to the position, or an equivalent combination of relevant tertiary study and substantial experience in executive support.

Significant experience in providing autonomous, high-level executive support in a customer-focused setting, with demonstrated judgement, initiative, confidentiality and the ability to manage competing priorities.

Experience working in local government or a similar complex organisational environment would be highly regarded.

A current vehicle licence would be beneficial.

Key Selection Criteria

Demonstrated experience providing high-level administrative and executive support, including diary management, meeting coordination, preparation of correspondence, reports and briefing materials, and the management of competing priorities in a complex environment.

Highly developed organisational and time management skills,



with the ability to exercise initiative, coordinate multiple tasks, meet deadlines and maintain a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.

Proven ability to exercise discretion, sound judgement and confidentiality when dealing with sensitive information, complex enquiries and matters requiring a qualified and diplomatic approach.

Well-developed communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with elected members, senior leaders, staff, government agencies, community members and other stakeholders.

Demonstrated ability to provide high-quality customer service and stakeholder support, including responding to enquiries, coordinating information and facilitating the timely progression of actions and commitments.

Position Summary : The Executive Assistant provides high-level, confidential administrative support to the CEO and Council, enabling the Office of the CEO to operate efficiently and professionally and contribute to the achievement of Council’s strategic goals and objectives.

Key Requirements : Accountability & Extent of Authority

Accountable for the provision of high-quality, professional executive support and advice to the Office of the CEO, Mayor and Councillors, ensuring work is delivered accurately, efficiently and within required timeframes.





Exercises discretion within established policies, procedures and priorities, with decisions and actions having a direct impact on the effectiveness of the CEO’s office, the timely delivery of Council business, and the organisation’s reputation.

Judgement & Decision Making

Exercises sound judgement, initiative and discretion in managing sensitive, complex and confidential matters, including prioritising competing demands and determining appropriate responses to enquiries.

The role requires problem-solving within defined objectives, including identifying issues, selecting from established options, and applying professional knowledge and experience to support timely and effective outcomes.

Guidance and advice are generally available however the incumbent is expected to work with a degree of autonomy and make decisions within delegated authority.

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

Well-developed administrative and executive support skills, with the ability to manage complex workflow, prepare high-quality documentation and maintain accuracy under pressure.

Demonstrated understanding of the role and functions of the CEO, Mayor and Councillors within the broader organisational and political context of local government.

Ability to apply knowledge of relevant Council policies, procedures, legislative requirements and governance processes to support the efficient operation of the Office of the CEO.

Well-developed project coordination skills and the ability to work across multiple priorities with limited supervision.

High level computer literacy and proficiency in using contemporary office systems, software and technology.

Management Skills

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📌 Executive Assistant (Ballarat)
🏢 Ararat Rural City Council
📍 Ballarat