Human Resources Director 2024

A human resources director conducts a job interview with a candidate while holding their resume.

City of Parramatta Named 5-Star Employer of Choice

The City of Parramatta has been recognised as a 5-Star Employer of Choice in Human Resources Director Australia’s national Best Employer to Work For list—becoming the only local government organisation in Australia with over 500 employees to earn the title in 2024.

The recognition is based on an anonymous staff survey evaluating key workplace benefits such as:

  • Compensation and culture
  • Employee development
  • Diversity and inclusion
  • Flexible work arrangements
  • Paid parental and carer’s leave
  • Subsidised childcare
  • Technology and innovation in the workplace

To qualify, organisations had to achieve a minimum 75% satisfaction rating across all categories.

City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said the award reflects the City’s growing reputation as a top-tier employer:

“We’re competing with some of the most recognised organisations in Australia and globally. This recognition shows that Parramatta is not only a great place to live and visit—but also to work.”

A People-First Approach to Public Sector Excellence

Chief Executive Officer Gail Connolly PSM said the award is a testament to Council’s commitment to its people:

“We’ve seen a 30% increase in job applications in 2024, with over 18,000 submissions—nearly double the previous two years. That’s proof that people want to build their careers here.”

Council’s workplace initiatives include:

  • Flexible work arrangements
  • Health and Wellbeing Action Plan
  • Diversity and Inclusion programs
  • All-staff conferences
  • Modern digital tools and systems

A Growing List of HR Achievements

This latest recognition follows a series of major HR awards, including:

  • Best Use of Technology – 2024 Australian HR Awards
  • Best Health and Wellbeing Program – 2024 Australian HR Awards
  • People, Workplace & Wellbeing – 2024 Local Government Excellence Awards
  • Best Diversity & Inclusion Program – 2023 Australian HR Awards