Coober Pedy Council’s CEO offer now includes free rent, car – on top of huge $275k salary

A remote South Australian council has thrown even more perks into a role with a staggering salary. Find out what they are – and why no one wants the job.

The District of Coober Pedy is offering free rent, unlimited use of a car, extra leave and up to $274,437 for its next CEO.

Free rent and an all-expense paid car are among the extra perks on now offer for the state’s most remote council’s chief executive officer, in a desperate bid to hire someone to the role.

The Advertiser last week revealed the Administrators of Coober Pedy council secured an extra $40,000 to top up the possible salary of its next CEO.

It was hoped the additional funds would make the position more appealing to a qualified executive to help steer it towards financial stability.

In the latest job advertisement, it can be revealed that on top of the $197,600-$274,437 available salary, the successful applicant could also live rent-free with a fully furnished council house and have “unlimited private use” of a car.

The position could also include additional leave and travel allowance as part of the negotiable overall remuneration package.

“You will need to be financially savvy to assist and guide council through a challenging period,” the listing read.

“Your excellent communication skills and collaborative approach will see you establish and maintain outstanding working relationships with key stakeholders.

“It is essential that you are willing to relocate permanently to Coober Pedy and have a proven background in uniting communities.”

Coober Pedy has tried three times to recruit a CEO, with a specialist report identifying remuneration – previously capped at $234,437 – as a main block to success.

The District Council of Coober Pedy has been a “defaulting council” since January 2019, which will continue through to local government elections in November 2026, meaning administrators oversee it.