Porter

Position Summary

The Porter will provide essential facilities support and event setup services at Australia House. This role ensures the building remains safe, well-maintained, and operationally efficient while delivering high-quality event support services for diplomatic functions and internal meetings.

Key Responsibilities

Facilities Management

Daily Duties:

• Conduct morning and afternoon building inspections, including all stairwells, to identify and remove obstructions from walkways and fire evacuation routes (trolleys, waste cardboard, broken furniture, etc.)
• Perform twice-weekly kitchen and kitchenette checks (Tuesdays and Fridays), restocking supplies as needed
• Coordinate with COPA (Consular and Passports) mail room for internal delivery of larger parcels and respond to ad hoc delivery requests
• Report building damage, potential hazards (loose cables, lighting failures, floor markings, spillages), and safety risks to Business Operations (Facilities)
• Complete general ad hoc tasks including furniture relocation, stationery delivery, waste removal, contractor assistance, print station monitoring (Level 2), and simple furniture assembly

Weekly Duties:

• Inspect and refill all hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the building; report fallen units and low stock levels
• Maintain the rooftop event space: remove leaves, inspect plant health, and report issues to Facilities
• Water plants outside the Downer room and check Exhibition Hall plant condition
• Verify all DFAT dishwashers and glasswashers are operational; replace salt as required
• Clear leaves and debris from Executive balconies

Ongoing Duties:

• Maintain accurate inventories of stored furniture and event equipment; report damaged or broken items
• Keep furniture stores, event storage areas, and Porter's storeroom organized and tidy at all times
• Monitor supply levels and advise Business Operations (Facilities) when restocking is required (black sacks, cleaning supplies, kitchen detergent, salt, etc.)

Event Support Services

Pre-Event Setup:

• Review event setup requirements using Room Setup forms
• Assess table and chair inventory on event levels; relocate additional furniture from other floors via stairs or goods lift as needed
• Prepare event spaces and arrange furniture according to specifications
• Set up required technology including AV equipment, TV screens, speakers, projectors, and PA systems
• Meet caterers at Melbourne Place entrance and escort them through goods lift
• Receive deliveries for crockery, cutlery, beverages, and catering supplies from external vendors or internal storage
• Ensure dishwashers contain adequate salt and are fully operational
• Prepare coffee and tea service equipment as requested
• Transport wine from storage to appropriate refrigeration areas

Post-Event Breakdown:

• Clear and reset rooms as required
• Return crockery, cutlery, and supplies to couriers or designated storage locations
• Verify kitchens are clean and all dishwasher items are properly stored
• Coordinate additional support staff for large or multiple concurrent events (advance notice required)

Required Qualifications

• Previous experience in facilities support, porter services, or building maintenance preferred
• Ability to lift and move furniture and equipment safely
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
• Excellent communication skills and customer service orientation
• Ability to work independently and prioritize multiple tasks
• Flexible approach to working hours to accommodate event schedules
• Basic understanding of health and safety requirements

Physical Requirements

• Ability to walk building premises multiple times daily
• Capability to lift and move furniture and equipment weighing up to [specify weight]
• Ability to climb stairs regularly
• Manual dexterity for equipment setup and maintenance tasks

Working Conditions

• Standard business hours with flexibility required for event support
• Work performed in office building environment, including outdoor rooftop areas
• May require occasional evening or weekend work for special events