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Illustrator

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An Illustrator creates images for books, advertising, or marketing, specialising in media like paintings or digital art, working to briefs and deadlines.

  • This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

How do I become a illustrator

Get qualified to work as a illustrator with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Related career opportunities

Browse occupations related to Illustrator.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Illustrator generally earns $1,450 per week ($75,400 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.

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

The number of people working in this field is likely to grow strongly in coming years. There are currently 2,100 people employed in this industry in Australia and many of them specialise as an Illustrator. Illustrators may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

If you’re interested in a career as an Illustrator, consider enrolling in a Diploma of Visual Arts. This course will develop your practical skills across a range of creative mediums. You’ll have the opportunity to prepare a body of work during your studies. A Certificate IV in Design may also be appropriate.

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

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Career opportunities

Further reading

How to become a multimedia designer

4th November 2019

Career spotlight: Advertising and marketing professionals

2nd October 2019

Most popular design courses

30th May 2022

All illustrator courses

Illustrator careers

An Illustrator produces creative images used for a range of purposes. You might prepare illustrations used in story books or prepare images used in advertising, marketing or communication materials. Illustrators may specialise in a type of media such as paintings, drawings or collage or use other techniques such as photos and digital images.

Illustrators should be creative and able to work with prepared briefs. You’ll need to have strong artistic skills and be able to use your abilities in a range of circumstances. Illustrators must be able to manage their time well and work within a deadline. It’s important you can communicate well and work as part of a team.