Tour Guide (NT)

Education and Training:

You can work as a tour guide without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job. Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications. You may like to consider a VET qualification in tourism. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

You can also become a tour guide through a traineeship in Tourism (Guiding). Entry requirements may vary but employers usually require Year 10. Ask your career adviser about the possibility of starting some of this training in school.

Entry to this occupation may also be improved if you have relevant experience in the hospitality or tourism industries.

Additional Information:

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Tourism, Hospitality and Events Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

Companies that specialise in ecotourism or nature-based tourism may require tour guides to hold a degree or diploma in science, ecotourism or a similar subject. Some tour guides work at specific attractions such as museums, cultural centres, theme parks and sporting facilities.

First aid qualifications are generally required by employers.

Related Courses:

While the following courses are related to this occupation, they may not necessarily lead directly to employment, nor provide the most direct pathway to the occupation. Courses which provide preliminary or informal training, as well as those which provide additional job skills following initial qualifications may also be listed.

*Course is offered by more than one institution. Click link for details.

Employment Opportunities:

Most tour guides work casually on a contract or part-time basis, as employment tends to be seasonal. There are some opportunities for self-employment as a tour operator, tour manager or tour guide supervisor who trains tour guides.

Fluency in languages other than English is highly desirable. There is often a demand for tour guides who can speak Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, French and Italian.