CourseFinder logo – Australia’s leading course comparison site

How to Become a Network Support Administrator: Australian Careers in IT

1 Course

On this page

What is a Network Support Administrator?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Network Support Administrator?

A Network Support Administrator installs, configures, and maintains an organisation’s computer networks. They keep systems running, troubleshoot faults, and protect network security. Their work supports every employee who depends on reliable connectivity to do their job.

Day-to-day tasks include monitoring network performance, diagnosing faults, and documenting changes to the network. They manage user accounts and access permissions, and keep an inventory of IT hardware and software. When problems arise, they are the first to respond.

Network Support Administrators also train staff on new systems and software. They work with vendors and other IT teams to roll out upgrades and new technologies. Strong communication skills are just as important as technical expertise in this role.

Demand for skilled network administrators in Australia is rated “Strong” by the Australian Government (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). About 5,000 people work in this role nationally. Career paths lead to systems administrator, network engineer, or IT manager roles with experience.

Icon

Career snapshots For Network Support Administrators

Network Support Administrators are in strong demand across Australia. The Australian Government rates this occupation as “Strong” for future demand, with around 5,000 people employed nationally (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). The median age of workers is 42, and 88% work full-time.

Full-time workers average about 42 hours a week. Median weekly pay is $2,308, or around $120,000 a year (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). The role sits under ANZSCO code 263112 and needs a very high skill level.

The field is mostly male, with women making up around 13% of the workforce. Network administrators work across education, finance, IT, and government. Career growth typically leads to systems administrator, network analyst, or IT manager roles.

What will I do?

Network Support Administrators are responsible for the health and performance of an organisation’s network. They respond to faults, manage upgrades, and keep systems secure. Below is a list of typical tasks in this role.

  • Network Troubleshooting – Diagnoses and resolves network problems and emergencies as they arise.
  • Installation and Configuration – Installs, configures, tests, and maintains networks, servers, software, and workstations.
  • Network Programming – Writes and maintains network programs to meet specific business needs.
  • Documentation – Maintains accurate records of network inventory, fault diagnosis, changes, and maintenance instructions.
  • User Support – Helps users with technical issues and provides training on network-related applications.
  • Security Management – Manages user passwords and security protocols to protect the network.
  • Performance Monitoring – Monitors servers, printers, and computers to ensure they run efficiently.
  • Inventory Management – Keeps IT inventory records up to date and manages the disposal of outdated equipment.

What skills do I need?

A Network Support Administrator needs a strong mix of technical and people skills. Core technical skills include configuring network hardware, managing servers, and maintaining security protocols. Familiarity with Windows Server and Linux is essential. Knowledge of networking protocols like TCP/IP and DNS is also required.

Problem-solving is central to the role. Administrators must diagnose faults quickly and stay calm under pressure during outages. Communication skills are vital too, as they often explain complex issues to non-technical staff. Strong documentation habits and a commitment to continuous learning round out the skill set.

Skills/attributes

  • Network infrastructure setup and maintenance
  • Troubleshooting and fault diagnosis
  • Hardware and software installation and configuration
  • Network security management
  • User account and permissions management
  • Windows Server and Linux operating system skills
  • Knowledge of TCP/IP, DNS, and DHCP protocols
  • Clear communication and user support skills
  • Network documentation and record-keeping
  • Ability to work under pressure and handle emergencies
  • Teamwork and cross-team collaboration
  • Commitment to continuous learning and professional development

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!

Related Careers

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.