Actor (NSW) | Job Guide

Actor (NSW/ACT)

Education and Training:

You can work as an actor without formal qualifications. However, there are courses available that specialise in acting and it is advisable to undertake some formal training to improve your chances of gaining employment. Acceptance into formal courses is generally closely linked to your acting ability and interest, demonstrated by any prior experience and/or an audition piece.

You may like to consider a VET qualification in acting, performing arts, music theatre or theatre and screen performance. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

You can also become an actor by studying a degree in drama, performing arts, music theatre or theatre studies. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12 with English. Competition for places is strong, and an audition, practical test or interview may be required. A number of institutions in Australia offer degrees in these areas. Institutions have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements.

Additional Information:

Each November the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) and the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) conduct auditions in most states and territories for their courses. Contact NIDA on (02) 9697 7600 or WAAPA on (08) 9370 6594 for further details and application forms.

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:

To be successful as an actor, you will need to gain recognition from industry contacts, such as casting consultants and theatre, film, television and radio producers. Most employment for actors in Australia is provided by theatre companies, firms producing television programs, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, advertising agencies making television and radio commercials, and film companies. Most actors move from one medium or type of work to another as opportunities arise.

There may be times when work is easy to find, or when there is a part in a long-term production. At other times, work may be scarce and actors may be out of work for some time. As a result, they may not be able to count on a regular income from acting. Most professional actors hire a talent agent or management agency to represent them and to help find them employment. Actors often have to support themselves between assignments with alternative employment. Actors sometimes form groups and produce their own work.

Factors that affect demand for an actor's services include the number and type of films, television programs and stage shows being produced; the level of government, private and corporate funding; and the quality of the individual's work and reputation within the industry.