Independent Member – Independent Rate Relief Tribunal

Location: Brisbane, QLD 

Appointment Type: Part‑time, fixed‑term appointment (up to 48 months)

Remuneration: Remuneration for members of the Tribunal will be determined by Council at its sole discretion, in accordance with the guidelines established by the Remuneration of Part-Time Chairs and Members of Queensland Government Bodies issued by the Department of Premier and Cabinet.  

About the Independent Rate Relief Tribunal 

The Independent Rate Relief Tribunal (the Tribunal) is an advisory body that provides independent, balanced and objective recommendations to Council in relation to applications from eligible residential ratepayers experiencing genuine financial hardship.  

The Tribunal operates in a strictly confidential environment and is advisory in nature only. It does not exercise decision‑making authority or delegated financial powers.  

The Opportunity 

Council is seeking Expressions of Interest from suitably qualified and independent professionals to be considered for appointment as Tribunal Members. 

Members are appointed based on their skills, experience and ability to contribute to fair, transparent and well‑reasoned recommendations. The Tribunal is constituted by a minimum of three independent members, with backgrounds including (but not limited to): 

• Social services and community welfare 
• Social work, pensioner or tenant advocacy 
• Professional or industry experience relevant to financial hardship matters  

Key Responsibilities 

As a Tribunal Member, you will: 

• Review applications from eligible residential ratepayers experiencing serious financial hardship 
• Consider sensitive financial and personal information in a confidential setting 
• Apply the eligibility criteria and principles of natural justice when forming recommendations 
• Contribute to balanced, objective and evidence‑based recommendations to Council 
• Participate in Tribunal meetings as required, conducted on an “as needs” basis 

About You

We are seeking individuals who can demonstrate: 

• Independence, integrity and sound judgement 
• Experience working with vulnerable individuals or complex financial circumstances 
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to assess detailed information 
• An understanding of confidentiality, probity and conflict‑of‑interest obligations 
• The ability to work collaboratively and reach consensus in a panel environment  

 Previous experience on advisory boards, tribunals or similar bodies will be highly regarded. 

Appointment and Tenure 

• Appointments and removals are at Council’s discretion and subject to written notice 
• Remuneration is determined by Council in accordance with Queensland Government guidelines for part‑time statutory and advisory bodies  

How to Submit an Expression of Interest

To register your interest, please submit: 

• A current CV, and 
• A brief statement outlining your relevant experience, areas of expertise, and interest in the role. 

Expressions of Interest will be assessed and suitable candidates will be contacted to participate in the next steps of the process.

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