Aged Care and Disability Services Cook/Officer

Position Overview

The Aged Care and Disability Services (ACDS) Cook/Officer is responsible for delivering high-quality food services to all ACDS clients, in compliance with all relevant legislation, the GARC Food Safety Plan, and food safety standards. This role ensures the efficient operation of food services and kitchen facilities, while also supporting the general day-to-day operations of the ACDS program.

Position Description 

Title: Aged Care and Disability Services Cook/Officer


Classification: $73,729.67 - $80,566.25 p.a.

Employment Type: Full Time

Reports To: Aged Care and Disability Services Coordinator

Location: Groote Eylandt

Closing Date: Until Filled

Key Responsibilities


  1. Ensure compliance in all aspects of food preparation, cooking, presentation, and meal service, including Meals on Wheels delivery.

  2. Handle all food in accordance with the GARC Food Safety Plan, accreditation requirements, and relevant legislation.

  3. Prepare meals with appropriate texture modifications to meet individual client needs.

  4. Prepare special diets as directed by a dietitian or the ACDS Coordinator (e.g., diabetic, high/low protein, gluten-free), while considering client preferences.

  5. Manage stock control and food storage in line with the GARC Food Safety Plan.

  6. Check all received goods in accordance with GARC procedures.

  7. Contribute to effective teamwork through clear communication, shared duties, and flexibility in daily workflows.

  8. Adhere to and regularly review cleaning schedules and daily run sheets; maintain accurate records for quality assurance and audits.

  9. Maintain a safe working environment and comply with GARC Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) policies and procedures.

  10. Actively engage in training and professional development opportunities.

  11. Foster positive working relationships with colleagues and the broader GARC team.

  12. Perform other duties as directed by the ACDS Manager.

Key Selection Criteria


Qualifications and Experience

  • Demonstrated ability in cooking that meets service requirements.
  • Food Safety Supervisor Certificate, or willingness to obtain within the first month of employment.
  • Minimum Certificate III in Individual Support (Aging and/or Disability), or willingness to obtain within the first 3 months of employment 
  • Current NT manual C Class Driver’s License.
  • NDIS Worker Screening Check or ability to obtain and maintain

Knowledge and Skills

  • Sound knowledge of food safety practises, including food handling, cooking and storage.
  • Understanding of local government operations, community development principles, and relevant legislation.
  • Awareness of the cultural and social dynamics within the Groote Archipelago region.

Commitment to Community Outcomes

  • Strong commitment to achieving positive outcomes for residents of the Groote Archipelago Regional Council.
  • Demonstrate respect for Aboriginal cultures and the ability to work collaboratively in a culturally sensitive manner.
  • High level of cross-cultural awareness to support effective collaboration in a multicultural workplace.

Desirable Selection Criteria

  • Qualification in cookery, e.g. Certificate III in Commercial Cookery.
  • Experience working in Aged Care and/or NDIS setting. 
  • Previous experience living and/or working in remote Indigenous communities.
  • First Aid and CPR certification, or willingness to obtain.

Conditions of Employment

  • The role may require travel within the region and occasional out-of-hours work for community events or consultations.

Groote Archipelago Regional Council is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.


Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience relevant to the position. Applications should be sent to Dominika.chmara@groote.nt.gov.au and HR@groote.nt.gov.au

Note: Applications must address the Key Responsibilities and Selection Criteria to be considered.