How do I become a contemporary dancer
Get qualified to work as a contemporary dancer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Contemporary Dancer.
Common questions
In Australia, a full time Contemporary Dancer generally earns $1,200 per week ($62,400 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
Courses.com.au Team
Contemporary Dancers have enjoyed stable job growth in Australia in recent years. There are a small number of people in this industry though with 1,000 people currently in this job role. Contemporary Dancers generally find work in larger cities where productions are based.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
Courses.com.au Team
A Diploma of Dance (Elite Performance) is a great qualification if you want a career as a Contemporary Dancer. You could also consider a Certificate III or IV in Dance or a Diploma of Musical Theatre. You could also enrol in an Advanced Diploma of Art (Musical Theatre and Commercial Dance), a Certificate III in Community Dance, Theatre and Events (Acting) or a Diploma of Professional Dance Performance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers
10th November 2023
How to start a Career in Human-Centred Design
21st October 2024All contemporary dancer courses
- 10629NAT Diploma of Professional Dance Performance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
- 11052NAT Diploma of Professional Dance Performance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
- Bachelor of Creative Arts (Dance)
- CUA30120 Certificate III in Dance
- CUA30220 Certificate III in Community Dance, Theatre and Events
Contemporary Dancer careers
A Contemporary Dancer takes on roles in musical and stage productions, film and television projects or other performances for an audience. You might be part of a larger dance ensemble, dance with a partner or you may have a solo performance role. Contemporary Dancers follow choreographed routines and spend a large part of their time rehearsing on their own or with fellow dancers.
Contemporary Dancers need to be highly talented to embark on a professional career. You’ll need to attend a lot of auditions and be flexible with your performance roles. Contemporary Dancers work irregular hours and need to keep themselves fit and healthy. It’s important that you can collaborate with other dancers and choreographers and work well in a team setting.
