What Does an Office Manager Do? Role & Responsibilities

Public Service Administration: Career Outlook for 2025

The public service sector is rapidly evolving, driven by digital transformation, new policy frameworks, and shifting workforce expectations. Among the roles experiencing strong demand is the Office Manager — a key administrative leader who ensures smooth, compliant, and efficient operations across government departments and agencies.

At CV Writers Australia, we help professionals move into and progress within the public sector by crafting government-ready CVs that showcase leadership, accountability, operational capability, and alignment with public service values such as structure, equity, and meaningful community impact.

The Role of an Office Manager in Public Service

Office Managers are the operational backbone of government organisations. Their responsibilities go far beyond standard administration, extending into governance, compliance, resourcing, and people leadership. In 2025, the Office Manager role typically includes:

• Operational Oversight — Ensuring daily operations run smoothly by managing workflows, coordinating departments, and maintaining service standards.
• Policy & Compliance Management — Upholding government legislation, workplace safety laws, procurement frameworks, and ethical guidelines.
• Staff Supervision & Development — Overseeing teams, supporting performance plans, coordinating training, and contributing to workforce planning.
• Technology Integration — Implementing digital tools, optimising record-keeping systems, and improving communication channels.
• Strategic Resource Management — Managing budgets, procurement, assets, contractor relationships, and administrative projects.

Because public service roles emphasise accountability, governance, and efficiency, clearly demonstrating these competencies in your CV can dramatically increase your chances of progressing to interview.

Key Trends Shaping Public Sector Administration

1. Technology-Driven Efficiency

Government offices are increasingly adopting automation and digital platforms to streamline processes. Proficiency in Microsoft 365, SharePoint, TRIM, workflow tools, and digital reporting systems is now highly desirable.

2. Compliance & Governance Focus

Strong understanding of government policies, WHS legislation, procurement rules, and risk management frameworks is essential. Office Managers are expected to support governance reporting and maintain high levels of accuracy and compliance.

3. Work-Life Balance & Flexibility

Hybrid working arrangements and structured hours remain a major drawcard. Office Managers must be confident using remote collaboration tools such as Teams, Zoom, and cloud-based document systems.

4. Career Progression Through Structured Pay Scales

Unlike the private sector, public service roles follow classification levels (APS, state government grades, local council bands). Demonstrating clear leadership, initiative, and capability is key to progressing to higher levels.

5. Sustainability & Resource Management

Government agencies are prioritising environmentally responsible office practices. Experience in waste reduction, green procurement, and sustainable resource management can strengthen your CV.

Must-Have Skills for Office Managers in Public Service

Success in government Office Manager roles requires a mix of operational excellence, leadership, and technical capability. Key skills include:

• Records & Compliance Management — Knowledge of FOI, privacy regulations, data governance, and internal audits.
• Project & Resource Coordination — Managing budgets, procurement cycles, and office resources in line with government protocols.
• Workforce Planning & Development — Supporting staff capability, supervising admin teams, and coordinating training.
• Government Systems & Software — Experience with SAP, TRIM, SharePoint, finance systems, asset registers, and HR platforms.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Communication — Liaising with internal teams, external vendors, senior leaders, and the broader community with professionalism and integrity.

How to Adapt Your CV for Public Service Office Manager Roles

Your CV must clearly demonstrate your ability to work within government structures and expectations. A strong public service CV should:

• Align with Selection Criteria — Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) format to address capabilities.
• Highlight Metrics & Achievements — Quantify improvements such as efficiency gains, cost reductions, and successful team outcomes.
• Demonstrate Policy & Compliance Knowledge — Reference legislative frameworks, risk processes, WHS duties, or governance reporting you’ve contributed to.
• Showcase Soft Skills — The public sector values integrity, accountability, communication, and teamwork.
• Use Public Sector Keywords — Include terminology from the job description to pass ATS screening.

Ready to Step Into Your Next Public Service Role?

Whether you’re targeting an Office Manager, Business Support Officer, Executive Assistant, or Administration Team Leader position, a government-ready CV can significantly increase your chances of securing an interview.

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