How to Become an Administrative Assistant: Australian Careers in Business Administration

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Certificate IV in Business

The BSB40120 Certificate IV in Business offered by Open Colleges is designed to equip individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required to thrive in a dynamic business environment. This course covers a range of key learning areas, including effective communication, project management, and team leadership. Participants will...

Online

Administration Supervisor, Administrative Assistant, Assistant Manager, Business Development Manager, Contract Administrator, Office Administrator, Project Administrator

Price may vary

Self-paced; max 18 months

BSB40420

Certificate IV in Human Resources Management

The BSB40420 Certificate IV in Human Resources Management offered by Open Colleges is designed to equip individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required to thrive in the dynamic field of human resources. This course covers a range of key learning areas, including recruitment and selection processes, employee...

Online

Administrative Assistant, HR Assistant, HR Manager, HR Officer, Human Resources Administrator, Payroll Officer, Talent Acquisition Manager, Talent Management Consultant, Talent Manager

Price may vary

Up to 18 months

BSB40420

Certificate IV in Human Resource Management

The BSB40420 Certificate IV in Human Resource Management offered by the College for Adult Learning is designed to equip individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in human resource roles. This course covers a range of key learning areas, including recruitment and selection processes, performance...

Online

Administrative Assistant, HR Assistant, HR Manager, HR Officer, Human Resources Administrator, Payroll Supervisor

Price may vary

Approx. 8 months full-time. Approx. 12 months part-time

BSB30120

Certificate III in Business

The BSB30120 Certificate III in Business offered by Foundation Education is designed to equip individuals with essential skills and knowledge for a successful career in the business sector. This course covers a range of key learning areas, including effective communication, teamwork, and customer service, providing a solid foundation...

Online

Administrative Assistant, Customer Support Officer, Executive Assistant, Office Administrator, Personal Assistant, Receptionist

Price may vary

Up to 12 months part-time

BSB30120

Certificate III in Business (Customer Engagement)

The BSB30120 Certificate III in Business (Customer Engagement) offered by Foundation Education is designed to equip individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required to thrive in customer-focused roles within various business environments. This course covers key learning areas such as effective communication, customer service strategies, and the...

Online

Administrative Assistant, Customer Service Assistant, Marketing Assistant, Office Assistant, Receptionist

Price may vary

Up to 12 months part-time

BSB30120

Certificate III in Business (Business Administration)

The BSB30120 Certificate III in Business (Business Administration) offered by Foundation Education is designed to equip individuals with essential skills and knowledge for a successful career in business administration. This course covers a range of key learning areas, including effective communication, customer service, and workplace health and safety....

Online

Administrative Assistant, Administrative Officer, Customer Support Officer, Office Assistant, Receptionist, Records Assistant

Price may vary

Up to 12 months part-time

BSB40120

Certificate IV in Business (Financial Administration)

The BSB40120 Certificate IV in Business (Financial Administration) offered by Open Colleges is designed to equip individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required for a successful career in financial administration. This course covers a range of key learning areas, including financial reporting, budgeting, and the management of...

Online

Accounts Administrator, Accounts Clerk, Accounts Payable Officer, Accounts Receivable Officer, Accounts Supervisor, Administration Supervisor, Administrative Assistant, Executive Personal Assistant, Office Manager, Payroll Clerk, Payroll Officer, Payroll Supervisor, Senior Accounts Officer

Price may vary

Self-paced, max 18 months

BSB40120

Certificate IV in Business (Administration)

The BSB40120 Certificate IV in Business (Administration) offered by Open Colleges is designed to equip individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required to thrive in various administrative roles within the business sector. This course covers a range of key learning areas, including effective communication, project management, and...

Online

Accounts Administrator, Administration Supervisor, Administrative Assistant, Business Administrator, Business Analyst, Clerical Worker, Contract Administrator, Office Administrator

Price may vary

Self-paced, max 18 months

BSB30120

Certificate III in Business (Records and Information Management)

The BSB30120 Certificate III in Business (Records & Information Management) offered by Open Colleges is designed to equip individuals with essential skills in managing records and information within a business context. This course covers key learning areas such as the principles of information management, the importance of compliance...

Online

Administration Supervisor, Administrative Assistant, Business Administrator, Contract Administrator, Office Administrator, Project Administrator, Records Assistant, Records Manager, Records Officer

Price may vary

12 months self-paced

BSB30120

Certificate III in Business (Customer Engagement)

The BSB30120 Certificate III in Business (Customer Engagement) offered by Open Colleges is designed to equip individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required to thrive in customer-focused roles within various business environments. This course covers key learning areas such as effective communication, customer service strategies, and the...

Online

Administration Supervisor, Administrative Assistant, Business Administrator, Customer Service Assistant, Customer Service Manager, Customer Support Officer

Price may vary

12 months self-paced

On this page

What is a Administrative Assistant?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Administrative Assistant?

The role of an Administrative Assistant is a vital one in any organisation, serving as the backbone of office operations. These professionals are responsible for a wide range of tasks that ensure the smooth functioning of daily activities. From managing schedules and coordinating meetings to handling correspondence and maintaining records, Administrative Assistants play a crucial role in supporting their teams and enhancing productivity. Their ability to multitask and stay organised makes them indispensable in various industries, including education, healthcare, and corporate sectors.

Administrative Assistants are tasked with a variety of responsibilities that contribute to the overall efficiency of the workplace. They often prepare reports, manage files, and assist with data entry, ensuring that information is accurate and readily accessible. Additionally, they may handle incoming calls and emails, providing information and support to clients and colleagues alike. This role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to problem-solving, making it an excellent fit for individuals who thrive in dynamic environments.

In their day-to-day activities, Administrative Assistants engage in tasks such as scheduling appointments, organising travel arrangements, and maintaining office supplies. They often serve as the first point of contact for visitors, showcasing their organisation’s professionalism and welcoming atmosphere. The role also offers opportunities for personal and professional growth, as Administrative Assistants can develop valuable skills in project management, customer service, and office technology, paving the way for future career advancements.

Overall, a career as an Administrative Assistant is both rewarding and diverse, offering individuals the chance to make a significant impact within their organisations. With the right skills and a positive attitude, those in this role can enjoy a fulfilling career that not only supports their teams but also contributes to their personal development and success in the workplace.

Career snapshots For Administrative Assistants

The role of Clerical and Administrative Workers encompasses a variety of positions, including Coding Clerks, Examination Supervisors, and Travel Clerks. This career path is essential in supporting the operational functions of various industries, such as education, public administration, and professional services.

Average Age: 33 years
Gender Distribution: 72% female
Hours Worked: Average full-time hours per week is 41, with 52% of workers employed full-time
Average Pay: The average hourly pay is approximately AU$25.35
Unemployment Rate: Not specified
Employment Numbers: Approximately 8,500 people are employed in this role
Projected Growth: Annual employment growth data is not available

This career offers a diverse range of tasks, from managing correspondence to preparing reports and providing customer service. As the demand for administrative support continues, this role remains a vital component of many organisations.

What will I do?

Administrative assistants play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of an organisation. They provide essential support to various departments by managing administrative tasks, facilitating communication, and maintaining records. This position is ideal for individuals who are organised, detail-oriented, and possess strong communication skills. The day-to-day responsibilities of an administrative assistant can vary widely, but they all contribute to the overall efficiency of the workplace.

Records, prepares, sorts, classifies and files information – Ensures that all documents and data are accurately maintained and easily accessible.
Sorts, opens and sends mail – Manages incoming and outgoing correspondence to ensure timely communication.
Photocopies and faxes documents – Handles document duplication and transmission to support various office needs.
Prepares reports of a routine nature – Compiles and formats reports to provide updates and insights to management.
Records issue of equipment to staff – Tracks the distribution of office equipment and supplies to maintain inventory control.
Receives letters and telephone messages – Acts as the first point of contact for communication, ensuring messages are relayed promptly.
Transcribes information onto computers, and proofreads and corrects copy – Converts handwritten or verbal information into digital format while ensuring accuracy.
May provide customers with information about services – Assists clients and customers by answering queries and providing relevant information.
May perform receptionist duties – Greets visitors and manages the front desk to create a welcoming environment.

What skills do I need?

A career as an Administrative Assistant requires a diverse set of skills that are essential for supporting the smooth operation of an office environment. Key competencies include strong organisational abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills. Administrative Assistants are often responsible for managing schedules, handling correspondence, and maintaining records, which necessitates proficiency in various office software, particularly Microsoft Office applications like Word and Excel. Additionally, the ability to multitask and prioritise tasks is crucial, as these professionals frequently juggle multiple responsibilities simultaneously.

Moreover, interpersonal skills play a significant role in this position, as Administrative Assistants often serve as the first point of contact for clients and colleagues. A friendly and professional demeanour is vital for fostering positive relationships within the workplace. Problem-solving skills are also important, enabling them to address issues as they arise efficiently. Overall, a successful Administrative Assistant combines technical skills with a proactive attitude, making them invaluable assets to any organisation.

Skills/attributes

Strong organisational skills
Excellent communication abilities
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Attention to detail
Ability to multitask and prioritise tasks effectively
Basic understanding of office management procedures
Customer service orientation
Time management skills
Problem-solving capabilities
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Familiarity with data entry and record-keeping
Adaptability to new technologies and software
Professionalism and discretion in handling sensitive information
Basic accounting knowledge (optional but beneficial)

Resources

NATIONAL

QLD

VIC

ACT

TAS

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How to Become an Administrative Assistant: Australian Careers in Business Administration

Certificate IV in Business

Certificate IV in Human Resources Management

Certificate IV in Human Resource Management

Certificate III in Business

Certificate III in Business (Customer Engagement)

Certificate III in Business (Business Administration)

Certificate IV in Business (Financial Administration)

Certificate IV in Business (Administration)

Certificate III in Business (Records and Information Management)

Certificate III in Business (Customer Engagement)

What is a Administrative Assistant?

Career snapshots For Administrative Assistants

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Skills/attributes

Resources

Career Outcomes