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How to Become a Project Support Officer: Australian Careers in Project Management

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What is a Project Support Officer?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Project Support Officer?

A Project Support Officer helps project managers deliver their work on time. They manage admin, keep documents in order, and make sure teams and stakeholders stay connected.

Project Support Officers handle many different tasks each day. They write reports, track schedules, and gather data on project progress. They also manage contracts, liaise with contractors, and arrange resources for the team.

This role exists across many industries. Common sectors include public administration, construction, healthcare, and IT. Most roles are full-time and office-based, with some site visits depending on the project.

A Project Support Officer role is a great way into project management. With time and study, you can move up to Project Manager or Program Manager. It is a hands-on career with strong growth in Australia.

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Career snapshots For Project Support Officers

Project Support Officers work in a growing and stable field. Around 103,200 people are employed in this category across Australia (Your Career, 2025). Future demand is rated Strong, with growth driven by major infrastructure, tech, and health projects. About 80% of roles are full-time, with a median age of 42 and a 59% female workforce.

The typical salary ranges from $85,000 to $100,000 per year. The most common pay is around $93,000 (SEEK, June 2026). Salaries are higher in Canberra and major capital cities. Key industries include public administration, construction, IT, and financial services.

What will I do?

Project Support Officers are essential to any project team. They keep the admin running smoothly so project managers can focus on delivery. Their work covers documents, data, scheduling, and working with stakeholders.

  • Advising senior management on project issues and putting their decisions into action.
  • Overseeing contractor work and reporting on any changes to work orders.
  • Preparing and reviewing submissions, reports, and project activity summaries.
  • Collecting and analysing project data and reporting on outcomes.
  • Reviewing and arranging office accommodation for project teams as needed.
  • Responding to enquiries and resolving issues related to contracts and services.
  • Managing all documentation for contracts, programs, and projects.
  • Working with project managers and technical specialists to meet project goals.
  • Developing and negotiating changes to contracts and service agreements.

What skills do I need?

A Project Support Officer needs strong organisation skills. The role means managing many tasks at once while keeping everything on track and documented. Clear communication is just as vital, as you will work with project managers, team members, and stakeholders each day.

Attention to detail helps you spot issues early. Data skills are also useful, as you will gather and report on project results. Knowing your way around Microsoft Office and project software gives you a real edge.

Skills/attributes

  • Organisation and time management
  • Clear written and verbal communication
  • Attention to detail
  • Data collection and analysis
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Project management software skills
  • Problem-solving
  • Team collaboration and interpersonal skills
  • Report writing and documentation
  • Adaptability to changing priorities
  • Stakeholder engagement
  • Budget and financial awareness
  • Understanding of project lifecycle stages
  • Customer service orientation
  • Knowledge of relevant industry standards and regulations

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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.