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

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What is a Network Support Officer?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Network Support Officer?

A Network Support Officer keeps an organisation’s network running. They install hardware, set up software, and fix faults as they arise. This role is essential in any workplace that depends on digital systems.

Each day, a Network Support Officer checks network performance and resolves issues. They configure new devices, update software, and log everything they work on. Good records help the whole team solve future problems faster.

Network Support Officers work with other IT staff and with end users. They run training to help staff use network tools well. Strong communication matters just as much as tech skill in this role.

Demand for skilled Network Support Officers is strong across Australia. Every industry needs reliable networks to operate. This career offers stable work and a clear path to senior IT roles.

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Career snapshots For Network Support Officers

Network support is one of the most stable careers in Australian IT. Around 9,700 ICT Support Engineers work nationally, with very strong future demand (source: yourcareer.gov.au, ABS 2021 Census). The role is common across finance, professional services, and the telecoms sector.

About 92% of workers work full-time, averaging 40 hours per week. The median age is 38 years and women make up 18% of the workforce. Average weekly earnings for ICT Support Engineers are around $2,202 (source: yourcareer.gov.au, ABS 2021 Census).

Entry-level Network Support Officers typically earn $60,000 to $75,000 per year. Those with Cisco CCNA or other advanced certs can earn $100,000 or more. The field offers strong job security and clear paths to network engineer and IT manager roles.

What will I do?

A Network Support Officer looks after the health and security of an organisation’s network. They deal with routine upkeep as well as urgent faults. This role is central to IT in any modern workplace.

  • Network Troubleshooting – Diagnoses and resolves network faults, including emergencies and connectivity failures.
  • Installation and Configuration – Sets up and tests new networks, servers, workstations, and software applications.
  • Network Programming – Writes and maintains network scripts to support specific business needs.
  • Documentation – Records network inventory, fault history, enhancements, and maintenance procedures.
  • User Support – Provides help desk assistance and user training on network tools and systems.
  • Security Management – Manages user accounts and enforces security protocols to protect the network.
  • Performance Monitoring – Tracks server, printer, and workstation performance to keep the network running well.
  • Inventory Management – Maintains accurate records of all hardware and software assets.

What skills do I need?

Network Support Officers need both tech skills and people skills to do the job well. On the tech side, they must know network hardware, protocols, and security systems. They also install, set up, and maintain software and devices.

Good communication is key in this role. Network Support Officers explain tech issues to non-tech staff every day. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and a drive to keep learning round out the skill set.

Skills/attributes

  • Network troubleshooting and fault diagnosis
  • Hardware installation and configuration
  • Software setup and system maintenance
  • Network security and user account management
  • Performance monitoring and reporting
  • Technical documentation
  • Help desk and user support
  • Clear written and verbal communication
  • Problem-solving under pressure
  • Attention to detail
  • Team collaboration
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development

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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.