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

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What is a Executive Assistant?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Executive Assistant?

An Executive Assistant supports senior leaders and helps the whole business run well. They handle schedules, emails, and daily admin so leaders can focus on key decisions. EAs are a key contact for staff, clients, and outside parties. Good communication skills and a professional manner are at the core of the role.

EAs take on many tasks each day. They organise meetings, write reports, and help with project work. Some help plan business goals, track progress, and make sure deadlines are met. This variety makes the role both busy and rewarding.

EAs also help build a strong team culture. They may plan team events, manage supplies, and boost morale. This hands-on approach lifts output and helps teams work well together. Working with senior leaders gives EAs real insight into how a business runs.

A career as an Executive Assistant suits people who enjoy variety and like being at the heart of a business. Pay is competitive, and the role often leads to more senior positions. There is strong demand for skilled EAs across many Australian industries.

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Career snapshots For Executive Assistants

Executive Assistants work in all major industries in Australia, from finance and health to government and tech. Most roles are full-time, around 38 to 40 hours per week. The national average salary is around $95,000 per year (SEEK Career Advice, 2025). Entry-level roles start near $70,000, and senior roles can reach $120,000 or more. Demand is consistent, as businesses need skilled EAs to keep their leaders effective.

What will I do?

An Executive Assistant supports senior leaders by handling admin, schedules, and daily tasks. They cover a wide range of duties, from managing diaries to helping with major projects. This frees up executives to focus on key decisions. The role needs strong organisation, clear communication, and good judgement.

  • Diary Management – Managing the executive’s diary, including meetings, appointments, and travel bookings.
  • Communications – Acting as the main contact between the executive and staff, clients, and partners.
  • Meeting Support – Planning and running meetings, writing agendas, taking minutes, and chasing action items.
  • Documents – Writing, editing, and formatting reports and presentations for the executive.
  • Project Support – Helping with projects by doing research, tracking progress, and meeting deadlines.
  • Expenses – Processing expense reports and making sure they follow company rules.
  • Office – Keeping track of supplies and equipment so the office runs well.
  • Confidentiality – Keeping private information safe and secure at all times.

What skills do I need?

A career as an Executive Assistant calls for a mix of practical and people skills. Strong organisation is key, as EAs manage busy diaries, run meetings, and handle admin tasks every day. Clear written and verbal communication is vital, since EAs work with people at all levels of the business. Skill with office software helps EAs work faster and more accurately.

EAs also need to solve problems quickly and stay calm under pressure. Attention to detail keeps everything accurate and on time. A proactive mindset sets the best EAs apart. They think ahead and act before problems arise.

Skills/attributes

  • Strong organisational skills
  • Clear written and verbal communication
  • Proficiency in office software and technology
  • Time management
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to multitask
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Discretion and handling of confidential information
  • Adaptability and flexibility
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Project management skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Proactive and forward-thinking mindset
  • Customer service focus
  • Basic financial and budget knowledge

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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.