How to Become an Archivist in Australia
Step 1: Build experience through volunteer and entry-level work
Start by volunteering at a local library, community archive, or museum. Entry-level roles as a library assistant or records officer are also a great starting point. This hands-on work teaches you how records are stored, sorted, and accessed. Many community archives and state libraries actively seek volunteers.
Step 2: Complete a Certificate III in Business (BSB30120) for a records foundation
Complete the Certificate III in Business (BSB30120) to build office and records management skills. This course is available through TAFE and registered training organisations (RTOs) and takes six to twelve months. Choose elective units focused on records and data management. Confirm the current code and units at training.gov.au before enrolling.
Step 3: Earn a bachelor’s degree in information management or archival studies
Most archivist roles need a bachelor’s degree. A Bachelor of Information Studies or Bachelor of Information Management covers archival theory, records systems, digital care, and data policy. Study takes three years full-time at a university. Charles Sturt University, RMIT, and Curtin University all offer relevant programs.
Step 4: Add a postgraduate course for specialist or senior roles
For roles in government archives, universities, or major cultural bodies, a postgraduate course sets you apart. A Graduate Certificate or Master of Archives and Records Management gives you advanced skills. These cover appraisal, care of records, and data governance. Most programs take one to two years full-time. Confirm current courses and entry needs directly with universities.
Step 5: Join the Australian Society of Archivists (ASA)
The Australian Society of Archivists is the peak body for archivists in Australia. Membership gives you access to events, peer networks, and the Archives and Manuscripts journal. Each state and territory branch runs regular events to build contacts and keep you current in the field.
Step 6: Apply for roles and develop a specialist area
Archivist roles are available in government bodies, universities, museums, and corporate archives across Australia. As you gain experience, consider specialising in digital records care, government records policy, or a specific collection type. Senior roles often carry management and policy duties.
An archivist’s day involves assessing, organising, and protecting records. You’ll evaluate documents for their historical and legal value, build filing and indexing systems, and check each item’s condition. Digital tasks are a big part of the role now. You might manage electronic databases, help researchers find what they need, or arrange repairs for damaged materials. The work is varied and rewarding for anyone who thrives on detail and has a passion for history.
Archivists protect the past so the future can learn from it. Each day brings a mix of physical and digital work, from handling original documents to managing online databases. This career is ideal for people who love history, detail, and problem-solving.
- Evaluating and preserving records – checking documents for their historical, legal, and evidential value.
- Building record-keeping systems – designing indexes and procedures to support archival research and easy access.
- Classifying specimens and objects – organising artefacts and documents so they can be found and used.
- Checking condition and authenticity – assessing the state and genuineness of historical items.
- Managing records systems – keeping an organisation’s records organised, compliant, and accessible.
- Controlling access to sensitive information – setting up rules to protect confidential records.
- Developing cataloguing systems – creating and improving systems to organise and retrieve records fast.
- Arranging restoration work – coordinating repairs and conservation for damaged documents and artefacts.
To thrive as an archivist, you’ll need sharp attention to detail and strong organisational skills. Getting cataloguing right the first time saves enormous effort later.
Digital skills are a must. Modern archives use electronic records management systems, and many are moving collections online. Picking up new software quickly will keep you competitive in the job market.
Good communication skills help you work with researchers, managers, and the public. A genuine interest in history and information gives you the motivation to do the job well over the long term.
