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Public Servant

A Public Servant works in various government roles, delivering community services or administering programmes while requiring strong communication and organisational skills.

How do I become a public servant

Get qualified to work as a public servant with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Public Servant generally earns $2,3000 per week ($119,600 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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The number of people working in this sector has increased in recent years. There are currently 22,100 people employed in this area and many of them specialise as a Public Servant. Public Servants may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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A Certificate IV in Business (Governance) is a good qualification if you’re interested in a career as a Public Servant. This course will develop your knowledge of business processes and financial management. Depending on your career plans, a Certificate IV in Crime and Justice Studies or a Certificate IV in Library and Information Services may also be appropriate.

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Further reading

Most popular government and public sector courses

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7 reasons to start a career in community services

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How to start a career in Legal Services

17th June 2021

Public Servant careers

A Public Servant works in a range of roles for a government department or agency. You might be employed in various sectors from defence to health or transport or education. Public Servants may deliver services for the community or administer programs for targeted groups. You might have an administrative role or work at an advisory or policy-making level.

Public Servants should have excellent communication skills and be able to work as part of a larger team. You’ll need to be a good problem solver and call on your analytical skills when required. Public Servants should be organised and be able to manage their time well. It’s important that you can follow correct procedures when carrying out your duties.