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An Academic Advisor, also known as a student advisor or academic counsellor, is a vital professional in higher education who provides personalized guidance to students throughout their university journey. The core meaning of this role revolves around helping students make informed decisions about their studies, career goals, and personal development. In simple terms, an Academic Advisor acts as a bridge between students and the complex world of university policies, programs, and resources.
Originating from early 20th-century U.S. models of student personnel services, the position evolved in Australia during the expansion of higher education in the 1970s with the establishment of the Unified National System. Today, Academic Advisors ensure student retention and success by addressing academic hurdles proactively.
In Australia, Academic Advisors work primarily in universities such as the University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, and regional institutions like Charles Darwin University. They assist with course selection aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), degree planning, and transitions between study levels. For instance, they guide first-year students through orientation and help mature-age learners balance studies with work.
Key responsibilities include monitoring academic progress via learning management systems, intervening in cases of at-risk students, and facilitating access to wellbeing services. Amid 2026 enrollment challenges, advisors play a crucial role in retention strategies, as highlighted in recent higher education trends.
To secure Academic Advisor jobs in Australia, candidates need specific academic qualifications. A bachelor's degree in education, psychology, social work, or a related discipline is the minimum, with many roles requiring a master's in higher education administration or student affairs.
Preferred experience includes 2-5 years in student services, counseling, or teaching support roles. Publications or grants are less common than in research positions but demonstrating impact through student success metrics is valued.
Essential skills and competencies encompass:
Professional registration with bodies like the Australian Counselling Association adds credibility.
Building a career starts with entry-level positions in student services. Gain practical experience through volunteering at university open days or interning in advising teams. Tailor your application with a strong academic CV highlighting transferable skills from roles like research assistant jobs.
Stay updated via networks like the National Association of Enabling Educators in Australia (NAEEA). Salaries typically range from AUD 85,000 for juniors to over AUD 120,000 for seniors, per Fair Work Commission data. Actionable steps: pursue short courses in student advising, shadow current advisors, and monitor job boards for openings.
Explore a range of opportunities across Australian universities on higher ed jobs platforms, including university jobs. For career tips, visit higher ed career advice. Institutions can post a job to attract top talent.
Academic Jobs lists current university and higher education openings in Australia with filters that match how campuses hire — by job type, position, city, and institution. Use the search above to narrow the live list, then apply from the employer listing. Set an alert with the same filters so new posts reach you while they are still open.
This page is for job seekers who want higher-ed roles, not a generic job feed. The heading count is the number of matching jobs in Australia right now. That is the figure you should use when you decide whether to widen the region or keep filtering.
Reach qualified academic advisor professionals across any industry. List your vacancy on AcademicJobs.com.
Get notified when new academic advisor vacancies are posted on Academic Jobs.
Taylor's University
Subang Jaya, SelangorTaylor's University
Subang Jaya, Selangor
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