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How to Become A Broadcast Journalist

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What is a Broadcast Journalist

A broadcast journalist gathers the news and shares it with the world through TV, radio, and digital media. It is a fast, exciting career that puts you at the centre of what is happening in Australia. If you love finding stories and speaking clearly, this could be the career for you.

Day to day, broadcast journalists research stories, conduct interviews, write scripts, and present news on air. They work with producers, camera operators, and editors to bring each story to life. Some work in a studio; others report from the field as stories unfold.

The role needs focus and energy. Deadlines are tight and accuracy is everything. Broadcast journalists follow the MEAA Journalist Code of Ethics, which sets the standard for fair and honest reporting in Australia.

You do not need to start at a major network. Many successful broadcast journalists begin at local or regional stations. They build skills and gain experience before moving to larger outlets or national programs.

Explore study options in Journalism

Career Outlook for Broadcast Journalist

A career as a broadcast journalist is dynamic and in demand across Australia. About 980 TV journalists are currently employed in Australia (Jobs and Skills Australia, ABS 2021 Census). The median age is 34, which shows a fairly young workforce. Women make up 58% of TV journalists, showing strong representation in the field.

Most broadcast journalists work full time, averaging 45 hours per week (ABS, 2021 Census). New South Wales accounts for around 45% of all roles. Queensland and Victoria each account for around 17% of the workforce. Pay across the broader journalist group has a median of $1,722 per week full time (ABS, May 2025).

The media world keeps shifting. Digital and streaming platforms are adding new roles alongside TV and radio. Journalists who can work across more than one platform are well placed for the future. Chances exist at local, regional, and national levels. Specialist areas include politics, sport, health, and in-depth reporting.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become a Broadcast Journalist

Step 1: Complete Year 12 and research your study pathway

Finish Year 12 with strong results in English. Look into university courses in journalism and communications early. Many universities need an ATAR for direct entry. You can also research cadetship programs at major networks such as the ABC. These programs offer a direct entry route with paid on-the-job training.

Step 2: Complete a Bachelor of Journalism or Bachelor of Communication

Enrol in a Bachelor of Journalism or Bachelor of Communication with a journalism or media major. This degree takes 3 years full-time at a university. It covers news writing, broadcast production, media law, ethics, and interviewing. Another VET path is the Diploma of Screen and Media (CUA51020). It is available at TAFE and registered RTOs and takes 1-2 years. It covers broadcast and screen production, editing, and media skills.

Step 3: Gain hands-on experience through internships or student media

Apply for internships, cadetships, or volunteer roles at local TV or radio stations or online newsrooms. Many universities have student media outlets where you can practise reporting, presenting, and editing. This hands-on experience is key for landing your first paid role. Aim to complete at least one industry placement during your studies.

Step 4: Build a professional demo reel and portfolio

Compile a demo reel that shows your on-air presenting, reporting, and script-writing skills. Include a range of story types, from breaking news to feature work. Keep your reel to 2-3 minutes. Also build a written portfolio with published or produced work. This is what employers review when you apply for entry-level roles.

Step 5: Join MEAA and apply for entry-level broadcast roles

Join the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA), Australia’s union and body for journalists. MEAA gives access to industry resources, the MEAA Journalist Code of Ethics, and a useful network. Start applying for entry-level reporter or production roles at local or regional stations. Most broadcast journalists begin at a smaller outlet and build towards larger networks over time.

What does a Broadcast Journalist do?

A broadcast journalist’s day is full-on from the start. Each morning kicks off with a review of the overnight news. Then comes pitching and researching stories. Journalists write scripts, conduct interviews, and work with producers and camera crews to put reports together. Some days you are in the studio; other days you are out in the field as stories break. As deadlines approach, you edit your work and prepare it for air. No two days are the same, and that variety makes this job one of the most exciting in media.

Tasks

Broadcast journalists do far more than read the news. They research, write, report, and work with teams to keep audiences informed about the world around them.

  • Research stories by gathering facts from interviews, official sources, and on-the-ground observation
  • Write news scripts that are clear, accurate, and in broadcast style
  • Present on air, delivering news bulletins and live reports on TV or radio
  • Conduct interviews with experts, officials, and everyday Australians
  • Work with producers, camera operators, and editors on each story
  • Track breaking news and adjust stories quickly as events unfold
  • Produce web articles, podcasts, or social media content alongside broadcast work
  • Follow ethical guidelines that uphold accuracy, fairness, and independence

Skills for Success

Broadcast journalism is all about communication. You need to research a topic fast, write a clear script, and deliver it on air with confidence. Being curious and determined helps too.

You will also need to feel at ease with broadcast gear and editing software. The media world keeps changing, and being flexible is key. Being a team player matters as well. Broadcast journalism is a team effort every day.

Skills & Attributes

  • Strong verbal and written communication
  • Research and fact-checking under deadline pressure
  • Interviewing and active listening
  • Scriptwriting and news writing
  • On-camera and on-air presentation
  • Media ethics and knowledge of media law
  • Familiarity with broadcasting and editing tools
  • Working in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments
  • Adaptability across TV, radio, and digital platforms
  • Collaboration with producers, camera operators, and editors
  • Critical thinking and news judgement
  • Attention to detail

Average Salaries

Broadcast journalists in Australia earn around $90,000 a year on average. This figure comes from a median weekly wage of $1,722 for full-time journalists (Jobs and Skills Australia, ABS, May 2025). Entry-level roles usually start around $55,000. Senior broadcast journalists at major networks can earn $140,000 or more.

min $55 K

max $140 K

av $90 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson - Course Finder Groups
Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.