Role overview
Secretaries (General) provide essential administrative support that maintains daily office operations across Australian workplaces. These professionals perform a range of clerical, organisational, and secretarial tasks that ensure offices function efficiently. Their role typically involves managing communications, coordinating schedules, handling documentation, and assisting with general office administration. In the Australian context, Secretaries (General) work across diverse sectors including corporate, government, education, and professional services, adapting their support functions to meet specific organisational needs while maintaining standard office procedures.
Key tasks in practice
Secretaries (General) perform diverse administrative functions that vary by workplace but typically include:
- Managing document systems including filing, archiving, and maintaining records according to office procedures
- Coordinating appointments, meetings, and schedules for staff or departments
- Handling incoming communications such as phone calls, emails, and messages, and directing them appropriately
- Welcoming visitors and clients, providing initial assistance and direction
- Preparing correspondence, reports, and documents using standard office software
- Performing general clerical duties including copying, scanning, and note-taking during meetings
- Arranging travel bookings and managing basic office supplies and petty cash when required
Skill level explanation
OSCA classifies Secretaries (General) at Skill Level 3, which indicates positions typically requiring an AQF Certificate III or IV qualification or equivalent experience. In practical terms, this means most Australian employers expect candidates to have vocational education in business administration or related fields, supplemented by relevant workplace experience. The skill level reflects the need for competent use of office technology, understanding of administrative procedures, and ability to perform tasks under general guidance. Many Secretaries (General) develop their skills through combination of formal training and on-the-job experience in Australian office environments.
Industry context
Secretaries (General) work across multiple industries in Australia, with common employment in office administrative services (ANZSIC 7291), business administrative services (ANZSIC 7292), and other administrative support services (ANZSIC 7299). They also find employment in legal services, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and government departments. The role adapts to different sector requirements while maintaining core administrative functions. This classification aligns exactly with ANZSCO 521211 Secretary (General), ensuring consistency across Australian occupational classification systems used for employment data, workforce planning, and migration assessments.