Payroll Officer (Public Sector) – Large Scale Government Agency

About the Company

NSW Treasury plays a critical role in managing the NSW Government’s financial resources, shaping fiscal policy, and driving economic growth for the state. As a large-scale government agency, we are committed to excellence, integrity, and providing outstanding service to the people of New South Wales. Joining our team means contributing to impactful work that supports the entire public sector.

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced and meticulous Payroll Officer to join our dynamic finance team. In this critical role, you will be responsible for the end-to-end processing of payroll for a significant number of public sector employees, ensuring accuracy, compliance with relevant industrial awards, agreements, legislation, and internal policies. This position requires a strong understanding of complex payroll calculations, superannuation, tax, and leave entitlements within a large-scale government agency environment. You will be a key point of contact for payroll-related queries and contribute to the continuous improvement of payroll processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Process end-to-end fortnightly payroll for a large volume of employees, including salaries, wages, allowances, deductions, and superannuation contributions.
• Ensure accurate calculation and processing of leave entitlements (annual leave, personal leave, long service leave) and termination payments.
• Reconcile payroll data, prepare payroll reports, and assist with month-end and year-end payroll procedures.
• Interpret and apply relevant industrial awards, enterprise agreements, and legislative requirements (e.g., taxation, superannuation) to payroll processing.
• Respond to and resolve complex payroll queries from employees and managers in a timely and professional manner.
• Assist with payroll system maintenance, upgrades, and testing to ensure data integrity and system efficiency.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of payroll legislation and compliance requirements.
• Collaborate with HR and finance teams to ensure seamless payroll operations and data flow.

Required Skills

• Minimum 2 years of experience in a dedicated payroll processing role, preferably within a large organisation.
• Demonstrated understanding of Australian payroll legislation, superannuation, and taxation requirements.
• Proficiency in using large-scale payroll software (e.g., SAP, Aurion, Chris21).
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and calculations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex industrial instruments.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to handle sensitive employee queries.
• Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Excel skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Business, Accounting, or Human Resources.
• Previous experience working within the Australian public sector or a government agency.
• Experience with time and attendance systems integration.
• IPASS or similar payroll certification.

Perks & Benefits

• Attractive remuneration package with annual salary increments.
• Generous superannuation contributions (employer contributions).
• Flexible working arrangements where operational requirements allow.
• Access to comprehensive professional development and training opportunities.
• Well-being programs and employee assistance initiatives.
• Opportunity to contribute to essential public services and make a real difference to the community.
• Central Newcastle location with easy access to public transport.

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