How do I become a performer
Get qualified to work as a performer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Performer.
Common questions
In Australia, a full time Performer 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
There are currently 9,900 people working as a Performer in Australia. Job opportunities in this industry have increased strongly over the last five years. Performers may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
Courses.com.au Team
A Certificate II in Music Industry is an ideal qualification if you’re planning a career as a Performer. You could also extend your skills with a Certificate III or IV in Music Industry. You could also consider a Certificate II in Community, Dance, Theatre and Events (Acting) or a Certificate III in Dance Practice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
Most popular music and dance courses
17th May 2022
Career spotlight: Hospitality professionals
17th September 2019All performer courses
- 10988NAT Certificate III in Dance Practice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
- 11036NAT Certificate III in Vocational and Study Pathways for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander People
- 11052NAT Diploma of Professional Dance Performance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
- 22566VIC Certificate I in Work Education (Ignition Theatre)
- Bachelor of Contemporary Music
- Bachelor of Music (Honours)
- Bachelor of Music (Music Education)
- Bachelor of Music Industry (Songwriting)
- Bachelor of Music Theatre and Acting
- Bachelor of Performing Arts
- CUA20120 & CUA30120 Dual Certificate II in Dance & Certificate III in Dance
- CUA20320 Certificate II in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts Industry Work
- CUA20620 Certificate II in Music
- CUA30120 Certificate III in Dance
- CUA30220 Certificate III in Community Dance, Theatre and Events
- CUA30920 Certificate III in Music
- CUA30920 Certificate III in Music (Performance)
- CUA50220 Diploma of Musical Theatre
- CUA50820 Diploma of Music (Music Tuition)
- CUA50820 Diploma of Music (Performance)
- CUA51520 Diploma of Professional Dance (Elite Performance)
- Master of Fine Arts (Voice)
Performer careers
A Performer entertains an audience by singing, acting, dancing or playing a musical instrument. You might also specialise in other types of performance such as circus skills or stunt performance. Performers may appear as individuals or as part of a larger ensemble group. You might focus on one particular type of performance or you may be skilled in several areas.
Performers need to show excellent talent in their field and should be ready to spend a lot of time rehearsing (either on their own or with their performance group). It’s important that you can follow directions and respond well to feedback. You’ll need to be comfortable performing in front of a crowd and you should be flexible with your performance roles. You may work irregular hours and may have to perform on weekends or public holidays.
