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How to Become a Records Manager: Australian Careers in Librarian

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What is a Records Manager?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

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What is a Records Manager?

A Records Manager designs and runs the systems that keep an organisation’s records in order. They ensure records are easy to find, stored safely, and disposed of correctly. Their work keeps the business running and meets its legal duties.

Records Managers study what an organisation needs and build record systems to match. They run both digital and physical filing systems and advise staff on how to use them. They also set codes and procedures to protect sensitive files.

Day-to-day tasks include creating cataloguing and classification systems. Records Managers prepare guides and indexes for staff who search records. They also plan the retention or disposal of documents under relevant laws.

This career suits people who enjoy working with information. Records management is needed in public service, healthcare, and business. Strong demand for skilled workers makes this a stable and rewarding career path.

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Career snapshots For Records Managers

Records management is a stable and skilled profession in Australia. About 2,100 Records Managers are employed across the country, with 79% working full-time (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2021 Census). The workforce is majority female, at around 70%.

The median age of a Records Manager in Australia is 47 (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2021 Census). Most work a full-time week of about 39 hours. The main employing sectors are public service, business services, and healthcare.

Average annual earnings for a Records Manager are around $93,000, based on recent Australian data (Indeed, 2026). Entry-level roles typically start from around $65,000 per year. Senior managers can earn up to $120,000 or more.

What will I do?

Records Managers design and run the systems that keep an organisation’s records in order. They ensure documents are stored correctly, easy to find, and safely disposed of when no longer needed. This role is vital for any organisation that must meet legal and daily operational needs.

  • Manage central records systems – oversee the storage, retrieval, and upkeep of records so they are accessible and secure.
  • Analyse record-keeping needs – study the organisation’s needs and build tailored record management systems.
  • Maintain record management systems – keep both digital and manual systems up to date and working correctly.
  • Control access to confidential information – set procedures to protect sensitive records and decide who can view them.
  • Develop cataloguing and classification systems – create and monitor ways to organise records for simple retrieval and legal compliance.

What skills do I need?

A career as a Records Manager calls for a mix of technical and people skills. Strong organisational ability is key for designing and running effective record systems. A clear grasp of legal rules around records is also essential.

Skills in both digital and physical record systems are a must. Records Managers must set up cataloguing, coding, and classification systems. Attention to detail is critical, as records must be accurate and easy to find.

Communication skills matter too. Records Managers train staff, advise on best practice, and work with teams across the organisation. Keeping up with new software and data tools is important as technology changes.

Skills/attributes

  • Strong organisational skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Knowledge of record management systems and software
  • Ability to assess record-keeping needs
  • Skills in digital and physical record management
  • Understanding of legal compliance and privacy rules
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills
  • Problem-solving ability
  • Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion
  • Project management skills
  • Knowledge of cataloguing and classification methods
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Willingness to adapt to new technologies
  • Time management skills
  • 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.