Melinda Ely
Bunbury,Australia
Summary
Results-driven Business Advisor and Bookkeeper with 15+ years of experience supporting First Nations communities and small businesses through strategic financial planning, compliance, and culturally safe engagement. Recognised for delivering practical, empowering solutions in financial management, business development, and community-focused advisory. Adept in leading financial operations, mentoring staff, and navigating complex grant and procurement processes.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Heritage Administrator
GKB Impact
06.2025 - 10.2025
- Managed financial operations for heritage projects, including preparation of invoicing, and cost recovery to maintain cash flow and transparency.
- Maintained accurate financial records and databases of active works to support reporting and audit compliance.
- Monitored aged debtors and ensured timely follow-up to reduce outstanding payments.
- Supported budgeting and process improvements to streamline internal financial systems within the Heritage Team.
- Engaged with Traditional Owners, government agencies, and proponents to facilitate clear communication and alignment on project deliverables.
Business Advisor & Bookkeeper/Finance Officer
IPS Management Consultants
06.2017 - 06.2025
- Advised over 30+ small businesses on strategic planning and improved financial sustainability.
- Guided clients through complex online platforms for grants, funding, and business support.
- Built and maintained strong client relationships through consistent, high-quality service.
- Managed full spectrum of bookkeeping: payroll, superannuation, accounts payable/receivable, BAS preparation, bank reconciliations.
- Liaised with ATO and ensured compliance with GST, PAYG, and payroll tax obligations.
- Trained and mentored junior finance staff and implemented internal financial policies including Indigenous procurement strategies.
- Coordinated Aboriginal participation initiatives on major construction projects, ensuring engagement with local Wardandi Traditional Owner groups and businesses.
- Identified and facilitated Aboriginal procurement opportunities in line with client targets and government policy frameworks.
- Worked closely with Tier 1 construction and infrastructure clients to promote Indigenous employment, supplier diversity, and community benefit outcomes.
- Supported stakeholder engagement activities including meetings, site visits, and reporting to ensure meaningful and respectful collaboration with First Nations stakeholders.
Office Assistant/Bookkeeper
Southern City Bathroom Renovations
06.2016 - 11.2017
- Managed all bookkeeping functions, including payroll, superannuation payments, and data entry in MYOB and IMS systems.
- Supported the sales team with customer service, filing, scanning, and email communications.
- Contributed to the efficient running of office operations and client service excellence.
Bookkeeper
KW Electrical Pty Ltd
05.2016 - 06.2016
- Performed data entry, payroll processing, superannuation payments, and job scheduling in IMS.
- Managed the lodging of electrical certificates and ensured compliance with industry regulations.
Client Services Officer/Bookkeeper
King Gibson Lewis
10.2014 - 05.2016
- Delivered exceptional client service while maintaining financial records, handling payroll, and ensuring compliance with statutory obligations.
Payroll Officer/Bookkeeper
South West Aboriginal Medical Services
09.2008 - 09.2014
- Managed payroll for medical staff, ensuring timely payments and accurate bookkeeping for Aboriginal medical services.
- Played a key role in maintaining financial integrity for essential healthcare services supporting the Indigenous community.
Education
AICD Foundations of Governance -
Australian Institute of Company Directors
Brisbane03.2025
Certificate IV - Accounting & Bookkeeping
South West Regional College of Tafe
Bunbury08.2023
Medical Reception Training -
South West Aboriginal Medical Services
Bunbury, WA12.2010
Certificate III - Financial Services (Accounts Clerical)
Open Training & Education Network
North Strathfield, NSW01.2005
Certificate II - Office Administration
Open Training & Education Network
North Strathfield, NSW01.2000
Skills
- Financial Systems & Compliance: MYOB, IMS, BAS, ATO liaison, Superannuation, Payroll Tax, GST, PAYG
- Business Advisory: Strategic planning, business plan development, procurement policy development
- Community Engagement: First Nations cultural competency, Indigenous economic development, capacity building
- Office Management: Asset management, IT coordination, purchasing, data entry, reception duties
- Leadership: Mentorship of finance assistants, team collaboration, initiative and reliability
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT & INTERESTS
Passionate about supporting the financial success of First Nations businesses and communities., Keen interest in advancing Indigenous economic development through strategic financial advisory and capacity-building initiatives.
Timeline
Heritage Administrator
GKB Impact
06.2025 - 10.2025
Business Advisor & Bookkeeper/Finance Officer
IPS Management Consultants
06.2017 - 06.2025
Office Assistant/Bookkeeper
Southern City Bathroom Renovations
06.2016 - 11.2017
Bookkeeper
KW Electrical Pty Ltd
05.2016 - 06.2016
Client Services Officer/Bookkeeper
King Gibson Lewis
10.2014 - 05.2016
Payroll Officer/Bookkeeper
South West Aboriginal Medical Services
09.2008 - 09.2014
AICD Foundations of Governance -
Australian Institute of Company Directors
Certificate IV - Accounting & Bookkeeping
South West Regional College of Tafe
Medical Reception Training -
South West Aboriginal Medical Services
Certificate III - Financial Services (Accounts Clerical)
Open Training & Education Network
Certificate II - Office Administration
Open Training & Education Network