Tools & Skills You Need to Land an IT Support Job in Australia (No Degree Needed!)

Aug 17 / Sweta Khadgi
Thinking about starting your career in IT Support, but not sure what skills actually matter? You're not alone. With so much noise around degrees and certifications, many job seekers forget that employers care more about what you can do than what’s on your diploma.

The Reality Check: Skills Beat Degrees

In 2025, Australian employers hiring for IT support and helpdesk roles are looking for one thing: job-ready talent. A formal degree might help, but practical knowledge, hands-on tool experience, and soft skills are what truly get you hired. You’ll often see job ads requiring “experience with Windows Server” or “familiarity with ticketing systems”, not a computer science degree.

Tools You Need to Know for Entry-Level IT Support Jobs

These are the tools and platforms commonly listed in IT support job postings across Australia:

  • Windows Server
Core to many business networks. Learn about user management, group policies, and file sharing.

  • Active Directory (AD)
Used in 90%+ of enterprise environments for managing user permissions and devices.

  • Office 365
IT support professionals frequently deal with troubleshooting Outlook, Teams, SharePoint, and
OneDrive.

  • Zendesk, Freshdesk, or other Ticketing Systems
These platforms help manage and track support requests — knowing how they work is crucial.

  • Networking Basics
Understand IP addressing, DNS, DHCP, firewalls, and routers — the backbone of any IT environment.

  • Azure & Cloud Concepts
Even junior roles increasingly ask for some familiarity with cloud services, especially Microsoft Azure.

  • Remote Support Tools
Tools like TeamViewer, AnyDesk, and Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) are must-haves for supporting remote users.

Soft Skills That Set You Apart

Technical knowledge is just part of the puzzle. To thrive in IT support, you need:

  • Strong communication skills (verbal & written)
  • A troubleshooting mindset
  • Time management and prioritization
  • Team collaboration
  • Patience and customer service orientation

Employers often choose candidates who can explain technology in simple terms over someone with complex certifications but poor communication skills.

How to Learn These Skills — Fast

You don’t need to spend 3 years in university. Job-Ready Programs are designed to equip beginners with all the tools and practical training needed in just 12–14 weeks.

These trainings offer:
  • Hands-on experience with real-world tools
  • Resume and LinkedIn optimization
  • Mock interviews and Career support
  • Mentorship from experienced IT professionals

Final Tip: Don’t Skip the Career Prep

Knowing the tools is one thing, but presenting your skills effectively is another. Resume writing, project-based portfolios, and interview skills are all part of what makes a candidate stand out.
Explore Preboard Academy’s Job-Ready Programs, built specifically for beginners and career switchers looking to break into tech fast.

Want a clear path into IT support in Australia

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