All careers

Receptionist

ANZSCO 542111

A Receptionist manages the front desk, greets visitors, answers calls, handles emails, takes bookings, supports admin, and maintains reception cleanliness.

  • This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
      • NT
  • 10,000 people employed in Australia
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

How do I become a receptionist

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

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Receptionist generally earns $1,049 per week ($54,548 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 can you expect a higher salary than people who are new to the role.

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

There are currently 181,800 Receptionists employed in Australia right now and this job role grew very strongly over the last 5 years. Receptionists work in all industries and employment sectors — from small business through to large corporations.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

Get started as an Receptionist with the Certificate III in Business Administration (keyboarding and basic admin skills) or the Certificate IV in Business (communication and writing skills). These courses take 6-12 months to complete. Vendor qualifications in various Microsoft and Adobe Applications (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Photoshop, Illustrator) may also be helpful.

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

Further reading

How to start a career as a Medical Receptionist

7th December 2021

How to start a career as a Personal Assistant

2nd December 2021

How to start a career as a Legal Secretary

19th April 2021

All receptionist courses

Receptionist careers

Receptionists take care of the front desk, meeting and greeting customers as well as implementing visitor screening and entry controls. They maintain the presentation and cleanliness of the front reception area and keep waiting areas stocked with magazines and coffee.

As a Receptionist you could be answering the phone and directing calls, responding to email enquiries, taking bookings and appointments, or supporting the admin team with word processing and data entry tasks. From time-to-time you’ll be dealing with customer complaints and providing information about company products and services.