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How to Become a Clerk: Australian Careers in Administration

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What is a Clerk?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Clerk?

A Clerk does clerical and admin tasks that keep an organisation running smoothly. Clerks work across many sectors, including public admin, health, education, and finance. They manage records and data so that information is easy to find and use.

Daily tasks include sorting files, managing mail, entering data, and writing routine reports. Clerks are often the first point of contact. They answer queries and direct calls. Some also greet visitors and run the front desk.

Attention to detail and strong organisation are central to the role. Clerks use tools like Microsoft Office for writing, data entry, and spreadsheets. Good communication skills help when serving customers or passing on messages.

A Clerk role is a stable entry point to the workforce. With experience, Clerks can move to roles like Office Manager or Administrative Officer. Those wanting to build their skills can start with a Certificate III in Business.

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Career snapshots For Clerks

Around 306,000 people work as General Clerks in Australia, making it one of the most common occupations in the country (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). Future demand is rated strong. Clerks work across public administration, health, education, finance, and construction.

The median age is 42 years. About 60% of Clerks work full-time, averaging 40 hours per week. Women make up 84% of the workforce. Median weekly earnings are $1,305, equal to around $67,860 a year (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025).

What will I do?

Clerks are the backbone of office operations across Australia. They handle the day-to-day admin tasks that keep information flowing and teams working well. Clerks work across public and private sectors in a wide range of industries.

  • Recording, preparing, sorting, classifying and filing information – Clerks manage records so data is easy to find and use.
  • Sorting, opening and sending mail – They handle incoming and outgoing mail so correspondence reaches the right people.
  • Photocopying and faxing documents – Clerks copy and transmit documents as needed to support team operations.
  • Preparing reports of a routine nature – They compile regular reports to help management track operations.
  • Recording issue of equipment to staff – Clerks track office tools and supplies to maintain accountability.
  • Receiving letters and telephone messages – They log messages and pass them on quickly to the right people.
  • Transcribing information onto computers, and proofreading and correcting copy – Clerks input data and check documents before filing or sending.
  • Providing customers with information about services – They assist clients with queries and direct them to the right resources.
  • Performing receptionist duties – Clerks greet visitors and manage front-desk operations when needed.

What skills do I need?

Clerks need a mix of practical and people skills to do the job well. Strong organisational skills come first, since Clerks manage files, records, and mail every day. Attention to detail is just as important for data entry, proofreading, and report preparation.

Computer skills are essential. Clerks work with word-processing, spreadsheet, and database tools on a daily basis. Good communication skills round out the role, whether helping customers, relaying phone messages, or working with team members.

Skills/attributes

  • Strong organisational skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Effective communication skills
  • Proficiency in office software and data entry
  • Time management
  • Customer service skills
  • Basic numeracy skills
  • Problem-solving ability
  • Ability to work independently and in a team
  • Adaptability
  • Filing and record-keeping
  • Discretion when handling sensitive information

CourseFinder makes every effort to ensure the information we provide is correct at the time of publication. We welcome your input to help keep our career profiles as accurate and up to date as possible. All queries and feedback will be taken into consideration as we conduct periodic reviews of our content. Add your voice to the conversation!

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.