Payroll Officer Courses
A Payroll Officer manages an organisation's payroll by processing wages, maintaining employee records, and ensuring accurate tax and deductions.
AI Exposure
High

AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Payroll Officer
Get qualified to work as a Payroll Officer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
FNS50422
Study mode
Blended, Online
Level-up your career in the accounts and payroll department with the FNS50422 Diploma of Payroll Services. This nationally recognised diploma will teach you how to manage an organisation’s payroll including superannuation, health fund deductions, salary packaging, allowances, and complex termination payments. The course also covers: industrial regulations and tax systems related to payroll, setting up and operating computerised accounting and payroll systems, working in the financial services industry. En...
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Study mode
Blended, Online
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FNSSS00004
Duration
12 weeks - 8 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online
The BAS Agent Registration Skill Set is a nationally accredited qualification designed for bookkeepers, payroll officers, or administrators aiming to become registered BAS agents. This course meets the requirements set by the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB). However, to gain registration, the TPB will assess each candidate's qualifications and experience against the standards specified in the Tax Agent Services Regulations 2009, ensuring all requirements are satisfied. This course provides the essential...
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Duration
12 weeks - 8 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online
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FNS50222
Duration
4 months - 3 years
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online, RPL
Become a registered tax agent, assistant accountant, or high-end accounts officer with the FNS50222 Diploma of Accounting. This nationally recognised diploma is recognised by the Tax Practitioner’s Board (TPB). The course covers: designing complex spreadsheets, preparing tax documents for individuals, managing budgets, preparing company reports, implementing internal control procedures, management accounting. Enquire now for entry requirements, accounting career outcomes, and upcoming enrolment opportunit...
Career opportunities
Duration
4 months - 3 years
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online, RPL
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FNSTPB412
The FNSTPB412 Establish and Maintain Payroll Systems unit covers skills and knowledge necessary for recording, preparing, and managing payroll documentation. It includes responding to inquiries and processing payroll data in both manual and computerised systems. This unit is relevant for individuals, including BAS agents, who employ various organisational techniques. They may work within organisations, as small business owners, contractors, or service providers. The unit meets educational standards set by...
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Related career opportunities
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Common questions

How much do Payroll Officers earn?
In Australia, a full time Payroll Officer generally earns $1,600 per week ($83,200 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.

What are the job opportunities for Payroll Officers?
There are currently 40,000 Payroll Officers employed in Australia right now and this job role grew very strongly over the last 5 years. Payroll Officers work in all industries and employment sectors — from small business through to large corporations.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

How do I become a Payroll Officer?
Payroll Officers need a strong understanding of industry awards, ATO and Fair Work requirements. The Certificate IV in Bookkeeping and Accounting (taking the payroll specialisation) is the minimum qualification. We also suggest the Diploma of Payroll Services.
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Explore hundreds of industry-recognised business training courses designed to boost your career. Find the perfect qualification with reputable training providers and enhance your professional skills today.
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Interested in a career as an Accountant, Auditor or registered Tax Agent? Here online you’ll find the latest accounting courses, including classes approved by the Australian Tax Practitioners Board (TPB).
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Study the foundations of financial services and learn a specialised skillset to hone your craft and make an impact. Get started today!
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More information
Payroll Officers take care of an organisation’s wages and salaries — preparing payroll data from timesheets and employee records, then processing the payments.
As a Payroll Officer you’ll be creating confidential employee files, using and maintaining a computerised payroll system, ensuring employer and employee contributions to tax and other deductions are paid correctly, and calculating annual leave or severance pays. This job requires a high degree of focus as accuracy is critical.
Please note: in smaller organisations payroll officers are often expected to take on accounting duties (e.g., processing debtors and creditors).
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