A janitor maintains the cleanliness and safety of commercial and public facilities across a wide range of settings.
Janitors work in offices, hospitals, schools, and retail centres. They carry out floor care, restroom cleaning, waste management, and supply restocking. Some also perform minor maintenance and set up spaces for events or meetings.
The cleaning industry in Australia employs around 150,100 commercial cleaners, 62% of whom work part-time (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). This makes the role well-suited to those seeking flexible hours or entering the workforce for the first time.
No formal qualifications are required to enter the field. However, completing a Certificate II in Cleaning Operations (CPP20322) at a TAFE or RTO gives you a recognised foundation. It can also improve your earning potential and open more career options.
Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.