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Writer

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A Writer creates fiction or nonfiction pieces for print or digital media, specialising in genres, managing time, and meeting 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 writer

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

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Writer generally earns $1,635 per week ($85,020 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.

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This industry has experienced moderate growth in employment numbers over the last five years. There are currently 30,600 people working in this profession in Australia, and this number is expected to increase to 32,400 by 2025. Writers may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

Author Image Courses.com.au Team

A Certificate IV in Professional Writing and Editing is an ideal qualification if you’re planning a career as a Writer. This course will give you the skills to work in a range of roles in the writing industry. You’ll be able to choose electives to suit your career plans including storytelling, writing for children, business writing, content writing, journalism, scripts or poetry. A Diploma of Professional Writing and Editing may also be suitable.

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Further reading

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5 Fun Career Paths that pay well

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5 jobs for people who like working with children

31st August 2021

Writer careers

A Writer writes fiction and nonfiction pieces for a range of purposes. You might specialise in a particular type of writing such as poetry, short stories or movie scripts. Writers may write pieces designed to be printed such as children’s books or magazine articles or you may write for websites or digital publishers.

Writers should be able to come up with unique ideas for writing work and must have excellent technical skills. It’s important you can respond to audience or client needs and you may have to liaise with clients or editors to determine their requirements. Writers should be able to manage their time well and meet their deadlines.