A Records Manager keeps an organisation’s documents in order. They ensure information is easy to find, safely stored, and legally compliant. This role suits people who love structure and want to make a real impact at work. Manage central records systems – ensure records are accessible, secure, and properly maintained. Analyse record-keeping needs – assess what the organisation needs and build record systems to match. Maintain both digital and physical systems – keep all record management...

Strong organisational skills Attention to detail Knowledge of record management systems and software Ability to assess record-keeping needs Skills in digital and physical record management Understanding of legal compliance and privacy rules Clear written and verbal communication skills Problem-solving ability Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion Project management skills Knowledge of cataloguing and classification methods Teamwork and collaboration Willingness to adapt to new...

What is the average salary for a How to Become a Records Manager in Australia?

Records Managers in Australia earn an average of around $93,000 per year (Indeed, 2026). Pay varies by sector, experience, and location. Entry-level roles start from around $65,000 per year. Senior Records Managers in large public or private organisations can earn up to $120,000 or more.

Become a Records Manager: Online Courses & Career Insights

A Records Manager keeps an organisation’s information in good shape. They design and run the systems used to store, find, and manage files and documents. Every business needs someone to make sure its records are correct and secure.

Records Managers build record systems suited to their organisation’s needs. They manage both digital and paper-based records and control who can access sensitive files. They also develop ways to catalogue and classify documents so they are easy to find.

Day-to-day tasks include training staff on record-keeping. Records Managers oversee the secure disposal of old records and keep systems up to date. They also make sure the organisation meets legal and privacy rules around document storage.

This is a great career for anyone who loves organisation and works well with information. Records management is needed in many industries, from government to healthcare to business services. With growing digital information needs, this career path is in demand.

Career Outlook for Records Manager

A career as a Records Manager offers steady work and real impact on how an organisation manages its data. Most Records Managers work full-time, averaging about 39 hours per week (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2021 Census). The field attracts a diverse workforce, with around 70% being female.

The median age of Records Managers in Australia is 47 (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2021 Census). About 2,100 people work in this role across the country. Roles are found in public service, healthcare, legal firms, and business services.

Demand for Records Managers is set to stay stable. As organisations handle more digital data and face stricter legal rules, skilled records workers remain in demand. This makes records management a solid choice for those who want long-term career security.

Steps to Become a Records Manager

Step 1: Complete the Certificate IV in Business (Records and Information Management)

Complete the Certificate IV in Business (Records and Information Management) at a TAFE or registered training organisation (RTO). This covers record systems design, information governance, and compliance practices. It typically takes 12 months part-time. Confirm the current national code on training.gov.au before you enrol.

Step 2: Gain experience in a records or admin role

Look for entry-level work in records, admin, or information services. Many Records Managers start as records officers or admin assistants. Use this time to learn how record systems work in practice. Build skills in document management software and filing procedures. Aim for at least one to two years of hands-on experience.

Step 3: Complete the Diploma of Business (Records and Information Management) (BSB50120)

To move into management, complete the Diploma of Business (Records and Information Management) (BSB50120) at a TAFE or RTO. This covers information policy, project management, and leading record programs. It typically takes 12 to 18 months part-time. A bachelor degree in information management or library science is also a strong path for senior roles.

Step 4: Join RIMPA Global and build your network

Join RIMPA Global, the peak body for records and information management in Australia. Membership gives you access to training, events, and a strong peer network. RIMPA also offers the Certified Records Manager (CRM) credential for experienced staff. Active involvement signals commitment to employers and keeps you current with industry changes.

Step 5: Apply for Records Manager roles and keep learning

With the right qualifications and experience, apply for Records Manager roles in government, healthcare, legal services, or finance. Tailor your resume to show your record systems experience and any software skills. Once in the role, keep up with changes in privacy law and data standards. Attend RIMPA events and take further training to stay current.

What does a Records Manager do?

A Records Manager runs an organisation’s record systems day to day. They design and maintain systems for storing, finding, and disposing of documents, both digital and physical. Key tasks include setting up filing schemes and training staff on record-keeping. They also control access to private files and make sure records meet legal rules. Working across many teams, a Records Manager is a key part of how an organisation runs.

Tasks

A Records Manager keeps an organisation’s documents in order. They ensure information is easy to find, safely stored, and legally compliant. This role suits people who love structure and want to make a real impact at work.

Manage central records systems – ensure records are accessible, secure, and properly maintained.
Analyse record-keeping needs – assess what the organisation needs and build record systems to match.
Maintain both digital and physical systems – keep all record management systems current and functional.
Control access to confidential information – set procedures to protect sensitive records and regulate who can view them.
Develop cataloguing and classification systems – create and monitor ways to organise records for quick retrieval and compliance.

Skills for Success

A Records Manager needs a solid mix of skills to do the job well. Good organisation and attention to detail are key, as they work with large amounts of important data every day. A strong grasp of both digital and paper-based filing systems is also essential.

Records Managers need to know how privacy and legal rules apply to the records they manage. Being able to explain these rules to other staff is part of the job. Strong written and verbal communication skills help a lot in this role.

Tech skills matter too. Modern records management relies on software tools for storage, search, and classification. Being open to learning new systems and adapting to change will help build a long-term career in this field.

Skills & Attributes

Strong organisational skills
Attention to detail
Knowledge of record management systems and software
Ability to assess record-keeping needs
Skills in digital and physical record management
Understanding of legal compliance and privacy rules
Clear written and verbal communication skills
Problem-solving ability
Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion
Project management skills
Knowledge of cataloguing and classification methods
Teamwork and collaboration
Willingness to adapt to new technologies
Time management skills
Commitment to ongoing professional development

How to Become A Records Manager

Diploma of Business (Records and Information Management)

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