How to Become a Payroll Officer: Australian Careers in Human Resources

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BSB40420

Certificate IV in Human Resources Management

Turn your knack for solving problems and your skills with people into a rewarding new career with this online BSB40420 Certificate IV in Human Resources Management course from Open Colleges.

If you’re looking to start a new career in human resources, this nationally recognised and industry-focused course is a relevant starting point that will help you build the fundamental skills and knowledge required to succeed in this exciting industry.

In this course, you’ll learn how to recruit new staff, manage effective workplace relationships, conduct research and analysis and understand workplace health and safety. Self-paced, online modules ensure your learning fits in with your lifestyle, while building new knowledge and industry-relevant skills for a next career step.

A broad range of elective units allows you to tailor your learning to an area that interests you. You may choose to specialise in recruitment, project management, developing teams and individuals or payroll system development and management.

If you enjoy working with people, work well in team environments, and see problems as opportunities, human resources may be the career for you – and it starts with this course.

PLEASE NOTE – Open Colleges is a privately-run RTO, not government-run like a TAFE, so they cannot offer government funding. Please check eligibility requirements before beginning an enrollment with Open Colleges.

Online

Administrative Assistant, HR Assistant, HR Manager, HR Officer, Human Resources Administrator, Payroll Officer, Talent Acquisition Manager, Talent Management Consultant, Talent Manager

Price may vary

Up to 18 months

BSB40120

Certificate IV in Business (Financial Administration)

Whether you’re looking to start a new career in business administration or have industry experience and want to formalise your skills, this BSB40120 Certificate IV in Business (Financial Administration) qualification from Open Colleges could be a great option. This flexible course, designed to make it easy to fit study in with your current lifestyle, combines the in-demand business administration skills with financial reporting and payroll knowledge to ensure that you become a valuable prospect for business in any sector.

This course will allow you to gain all the relevant business administration and communication skills such as how to build and maintain business relationships, apply various communication strategies to business tasks and write and edit complex business documents, while at the same time teaching you the principles of business financial reporting, processing of financial transactions and management of financial records and establishing and maintaining a payroll system.

Start studying today to give your career the kick-start it needs!

Online

Accounts Administrator, Accounts Clerk, Accounts Payable Officer, Accounts Receivable Officer, Accounts Supervisor, Administration Supervisor, Administrative Assistant, Executive Personal Assistant, Office Manager, Payroll Clerk, Payroll Officer, Payroll Supervisor, Senior Accounts Officer

Price may vary

Self-paced, max 18 months

BSB40120

Certificate IV in Business (WA only)

If you have a business brain and would like to pursue a career in business management or administration, then this BSB40120 Certificate IV in Business qualification from Insight Training could be the ideal first step.

This modern course will provide you with all the necessary skills and knowledge, as well as confidence to enter the world of business in almost any sector. You will learn essential skills such as how to build and maintain business relationships, how to use digital technologies to collaborate in a work environment, how to apply business risk management processes, how to promote innovation in team environments and how to manage personal and professional development.

By the end of the course you will have developed your interpersonal and communication skills to a level that will ensure that you can perform competently in entry-level business roles and that you have a fully developed understanding of how teams function as well as the ability to manage others around you. This qualification will give you all you need to tackle complex challenges you will face in your business career and ensure that you are a star performer in any business sector.

You have a choice of studying this course online (blended with virtual classes), or by correspondence.

This course is approved for government funding in the Jobs and Skills WA program, for eligible students. Enquire to check if you qualify.

This course uses the following delivery methods, please take this into account when assessing course suitability:

Blended with virtual classes – you can do the whole course online but you do need to attend some online classes at specific times (a couple of nights per week) with trainers. This study mode is government funded and is the most popular type of study mode used by students at Insight Training.

Please Note: This course is NOT available to people on a 500 or 600 visa.

Blended

Business Administrator, Business Coordinator, Business Development Manager, Business Manager, Business Owner, General Manager, Office Manager, Payroll Officer, Personal Assistant, Small Business Manager, Small Business Owner

Price may vary

Flexible to suit your needs

FNS30322

Certificate III in Accounts Administration

The FNS30322 Certificate III in Accounts Administration offered by Macedon Ranges Education is designed to equip students with essential skills and knowledge for a successful career in the financial services sector. This course covers a range of key learning areas, including processing financial transactions, maintaining financial records, and understanding the principles of accounts administration. Students will gain practical experience in using accounting software and learn how to effectively manage accounts payable and receivable, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of the workplace.

Throughout the course, participants will also develop their communication and customer service skills, which are vital in any administrative role. The curriculum is tailored to provide a comprehensive understanding of the financial environment, enabling students to confidently navigate various accounting tasks. With a focus on real-world applications, the FNS30322 Certificate III in Accounts Administration not only prepares students for immediate employment but also lays a solid foundation for further studies in finance and business.

By engaging with this course, students will be empowered to take the next step in their career journey, armed with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in accounts administration. Enquire to learn more.

Study modes: This course can be delivered either 100% online, or at Macedon Ranges Education’s campus in Kilmore, Victoria. Online students can start anytime. There are 4 intake dates each year for on-campus students: April, July, September, and December (for the following year).

PLEASE NOTE: This course is fee-for-service only, it is not government-funded.

On Campus, Online

Online, VIC

Accounts Administrator, Accounts Assistant, Administrative Assistant, Administrative Officer, Finance Officer, Payroll Assistant, Payroll Clerk, Payroll Officer

Price may vary

12 months

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What is a Payroll Officer?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Payroll Officer?

The role of a Payroll Officer is a vital component in the smooth operation of any organisation, ensuring that employees are compensated accurately and on time. These professionals are responsible for managing payroll processes, which include calculating wages, processing payments, and maintaining employee records. Their work not only supports the financial health of the company but also contributes to employee satisfaction and morale, making it a rewarding career choice for those who enjoy working with numbers and people.

Payroll Officers have a diverse range of responsibilities that require attention to detail and strong organisational skills. They create and maintain files for new and existing employees, ensuring that all payroll data is up-to-date and accurate. This includes tracking hours worked, leave taken, and any changes in employment status. Additionally, they interpret industrial awards and provide essential information to employees regarding tax issues, benefits, and deductions, fostering a transparent and supportive workplace environment.

Common tasks for Payroll Officers include preparing payroll data from timesheets, processing wage payments, and issuing adjustments as necessary. They play a crucial role in finalising arrangements when employees retire, resign, or transfer, ensuring that all records are accurately updated. This position often requires collaboration with other departments, such as human resources and finance, to ensure compliance with legal and organisational policies, making it an integral part of the business framework.

Overall, a career as a Payroll Officer offers a unique blend of financial management and interpersonal interaction. With the growing demand for skilled professionals in this field, individuals pursuing this career can expect a stable job market and opportunities for advancement. The role not only provides a sense of accomplishment through the support of employees but also allows for continuous learning and development in the ever-evolving landscape of payroll and compliance regulations.

Career snapshots For Payroll Officers

The role of a Payroll Officer is essential in managing employee compensation and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. This career is characterised by a strong demand for accuracy and attention to detail, making it a vital part of any organisation’s financial operations.

Average Age: 44 years
Gender Distribution: 87% female
Average Hours Worked: 41 hours per week
Median Weekly Earnings: $1,548
Unemployment Rate: Relatively low, with a steady demand for skilled professionals
Current Employment: Approximately 48,000 individuals are employed as Payroll Officers
Projected Growth: An annual increase of about 1,500 positions is expected in this field

Payroll Officers typically work across various industries, including construction, healthcare, and transport. Their role is crucial in maintaining accurate payroll records, processing payments, and providing support to employees regarding payroll-related inquiries. As the workforce continues to evolve, the demand for skilled Payroll Officers is anticipated to grow, making it a promising career choice for those interested in finance and administration.

Source: ABS Labour Force Survey, 2023; Jobs and Skills Australia.

What will I do?

A Payroll Officer plays a crucial role in managing the financial aspects of employee compensation within an organisation. This position involves meticulous attention to detail and a strong understanding of payroll systems and regulations. Payroll Officers are responsible for ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time, while also maintaining compliance with relevant laws and company policies. Their day-to-day tasks are essential for the smooth operation of payroll processes, contributing to employee satisfaction and organisational efficiency.

Creating employee files – Setting up records for new employees to capture essential payroll data.
Updating employee records – Maintaining and revising files for existing employees, including contact details, leave, overtime, promotions, and deductions.
Preparing payroll data – Compiling information from timesheets and other personnel records to calculate wages.
Processing payments – Ensuring timely payment of wages and salaries to employees.
Issuing pay adjustments – Managing and recording any necessary adjustments to employee pay.
Interpreting awards – Understanding and applying relevant industrial awards to ensure compliance.
Providing payroll information – Assisting employees and management with inquiries related to payroll, tax issues, and benefits.
Finalising employee records – Completing necessary documentation when employees retire, resign, or transfer.
Maintaining deduction records – Keeping accurate records of superannuation and other deductions and contributions.

What skills do I need?

A career as a Payroll Officer requires a diverse set of skills that are essential for managing employee compensation and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Attention to detail is paramount, as Payroll Officers must accurately process payroll data, maintain employee records, and handle various deductions such as taxes and superannuation. Proficiency in payroll software and systems is also crucial, enabling them to efficiently manage payroll processes and generate reports. Additionally, strong analytical skills are necessary for interpreting industrial awards and resolving discrepancies in payroll calculations.

Effective communication skills are vital for a Payroll Officer, as they often serve as a point of contact for employees seeking information about their pay, benefits, and deductions. They must be able to explain complex payroll matters clearly and concisely to both employees and management. Furthermore, organisational skills are important for managing multiple tasks and deadlines, especially during peak payroll periods. Overall, a successful Payroll Officer combines technical expertise with interpersonal skills to support the financial well-being of employees and the organisation as a whole.

Skills/attributes

Attention to Detail
Strong Numerical Skills
Knowledge of Payroll Systems and Software
Understanding of Tax Regulations and Compliance
Excellent Communication Skills
Organisational Skills
Problem-Solving Abilities
Ability to Maintain Confidentiality
Time Management Skills
Teamwork and Collaboration
Adaptability to Changing Regulations
Customer Service Orientation
Basic Accounting Knowledge
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Other Office Software

Resources

NATIONAL

QLD

VIC

ACT

TAS

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How to Become a Payroll Officer: Australian Careers in Human Resources

What is a Payroll Officer?

Career snapshots For Payroll Officers

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Skills/attributes

Resources

Career Outcomes