In addition to the normal services traditionally provided by Local government, Council is involved in a wide range of social and community areas which present special challenges to both the elected Council and staff.  These include:

• The development of decision making processes which are more appropriate to an Aboriginal community;
• Operation of Airline and Postal Agencies;
• The maintenance of assets in a harsh environment;
• The provision and maintenance of rental housing;
• Development and maintenance of Outstation/Homeland Centres supporting the return of the Wik peoples to their homelands;
• Training of local Aboriginal people for future roles in managing and administering the Shire;
• Social and community issues, including education, health, police and welfare service;
• Establishment (by Local Law) of a Land and Sea Management Office;
• Establishment of an Artists and Craft Workers Collective to focus on establishment of a viable art and craft industry in Aurukun.

Council has a staff of 80 people and 340 community residents are engaged under  CDEP (Community Development and Employment Program).

Council is the principal body responsible for policy with day to day management under the control of the Chief Executive Officer.  Council Departments and senior staff reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, Mr John Bensch, are:

• Chief Operating Officer   Mr Neil Ewart
• Chief Financial Officer    Mr Barry Bonthuys
• Chief Clerk  Mrs Anne Ewart
• Works Manager Mr Shane Marshall
  Outstations   Mr Andrew Ballantyne
• Art and Craft Manager  Mr Guy Allain 

Council’s Administration Centre is located at 39 Kang Kang Road, Aurukun.  Council also operates an office in Cairns where Council’s Chief Financial Officer and related accounting services are based.