All careers

Proofreader

ANZSCO 599913

Proofreaders meticulously review text documents for errors in grammar, spelling, and formatting across various types of content.

  • 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 proofreader

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

Common questions

There are no clear salary figures for proofreaders working in Australia at this time. Increase your earning capacity by gaining formal qualifications in professional writing and editing.

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

There are no clear employment figures for dedicated proofreaders working in Australia right now. They are employed by authors and publishing companies, news media and magazine houses, as well as large content marketing firms. Many proofreaders work freelance.

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

To become a professional Proofreader you’ll need an outstanding knowledge of English language usage and grammar, as well as the standard editing conventions used in the publishing industry. To get started on this career path, grab yourself a Certificate IV in Professional Writing and Editing or a Diploma of Professional Writing and Editing. Both of these VET qualifications will teach you how to proofread and edit a range of professional documents using standard editing conventions. If you prefer a university qualification, the Bachelor of Arts (Professional Writing and Communication) and the Bachelor of Communication (Writing and Publishing) are good choices.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

Further reading

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023

Career spotlight: Advertising and marketing professionals

2nd October 2019

How to start a career as a Paralegal

20th July 2021

Proofreader careers

Proofreaders are publishing professionals who read through text documents, correcting typos and mistakes in grammar, spelling and formatting. They have an outstanding command of English and may be assigned to proofread book manuscripts, blog posts, advertising copy, web content, business documents, technical manuals, academic textbooks, and more.

As a professional Proofreader, you could be doing a first reading of a document, correcting grammar and typos in a company ‘About Us’ webpage, reviewing a full book manuscript to detect inconsistencies in voice and tone, referring to a ‘Style Guide’ to ensure a word phrase is used correctly, sending your suggested changes in a marked-up document to a client, or submitting a completed project.

To succeed in this role you’ll need a keen eye for detail and a commitment to document accuracy. You’ll also need the ability to concentrate without interruption.