Network Administrator
Maintain computer networks, servers and connected systems to keep organisations secure, reliable and connected.
What They Do
Network Administrators manage the computer networks and systems that allow organisations to communicate, share information and access technology reliably.
They install and configure network equipment, servers and software, monitor system performance, manage user access and troubleshoot technical problems when systems fail.
Jobs and Skills Australia also identifies maintaining network documentation, resolving faults, supporting users and administering upgraded networks, servers and workstations among the occupation’s core responsibilities.
Who This Career Suits
This career suits people who enjoy technology, troubleshooting and understanding how complex systems connect together.
Network Administrators need patience and logical thinking because technical problems can have many possible causes and may need to be solved quickly to minimise business disruption.
It can particularly suit someone who enjoys practical IT work but also likes analysing information, configuring technology and continually learning about new systems.
Key Skills
Networking, Troubleshooting, Technical Skills, Cyber Security, Problem Solving, Systems Administration, Attention to Detail, Communication
Work Environment
Office, Technology, Remote, Computer-Based, Team-Based
Education & Training
A common vocational pathway is the ICT50220 Diploma of Information Technology.
The qualification is designed for people with established specialist ICT skills and includes formal specialisations in areas such as Advanced Networking and Systems Administration.
Training can include:
network configuration, server administration, virtual computing, network security, troubleshooting, cloud technologies, operating systems and maintaining organisational ICT infrastructure.
The ICT40120 Certificate IV in Information Technology can also provide an earlier pathway into IT roles before progressing to diploma-level training. Both qualifications remain current on the National Training Register.
University degrees in information technology, computer science or networking are another pathway, particularly for people wanting to progress into network engineering, architecture or senior infrastructure roles.
Career Changer Pathway
Network administration can suit people moving from IT support, telecommunications, electronics, technical support or other technology-focused careers.
Someone without previous IT experience may begin with entry-level technical training and work in help desk or IT support before moving into network administration.
Industry certifications covering networking, cloud services and specific technology platforms can also help career changers demonstrate practical skills alongside formal qualifications.
Early Career
Early-career Network Administrators often begin by supporting users, maintaining accounts, installing equipment and troubleshooting common network problems.
They may work alongside senior administrators or engineers while learning how an organisation's servers, networks, security systems and cloud services operate.
Common starting roles can include IT Support Technician, Junior Network Administrator or Systems Support Officer.
Mid Career
Experienced Network Administrators manage larger and more complex technology environments with greater independence.
They may specialise in:
cloud networking, Microsoft environments, Linux systems, network security, virtualisation, wireless networks, infrastructure monitoring or enterprise networking.
They may also manage upgrades, coordinate vendors and contribute to business continuity and cyber-security planning.
Senior / Veteran Career
Experienced Network Administrators can progress into Senior Network Administrator, Systems Administrator, Network Engineer or Infrastructure Manager roles.
Others move into cloud engineering, cyber security, network architecture, technical consulting or IT management.
Senior professionals may take responsibility for organisation-wide infrastructure strategies, major technology projects and teams of IT specialists.
Salary Guide
Early Career
75000
Mid Career
100000
Senior / Veteran
130000
Indicative annual salary (AUD)
Indicative annual salary (AUD)
Indicative annual salary (AUD)
Salary data source:
Jobs and Skills Australia / Indeed
Salary data source URL:
Date :
9 October 2026 at 12:00:00 am
Career Outlook
Jobs and Skills Australia reports approximately 48,600 Computer Network Professionals across the broader occupation group, with annual employment growth of approximately 2,600 workers.
The specific Network Administrator profile records approximately 5,000 workers, with around 88% working full-time. Network professionals are employed across technology services, education, telecommunications, finance and government.
JSA's shortage analysis showed that Computer Network Professionals moved from shortage in 2023 to No Shortage in 2024, so the Strong rating reflects employment growth and continuing demand for digital infrastructure skills rather than a current nationwide worker shortage.
Organisations continue to rely on secure networks, cloud infrastructure and connected technology, creating ongoing opportunities for people with networking, systems administration and cyber-security skills.
Job Outlook :
Outlook Source :
Strong
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