A commentator brings live events to life through their words. They cover everything from the action on the field to the stories behind the players. Here are the main tasks you will handle in this role. Researching events — Reviewing player stats, team history, and recent results before each broadcast. Preparing scripts — Building outlines and talking points to guide your commentary during the event. Delivering live commentary — Describing the action in real time and offering sharp, well-informe...

Clear verbal communication Deep knowledge of the subject or sport Quick thinking and real-time reaction Storytelling and audience engagement Research and preparation skills Composure under pressure Confidence on microphone or camera Teamwork and collaboration Adaptability across formats and platforms Attention to detail and accuracy Strong listening skills Professionalism and media ethics

How to Become A Commentator

What you need to know to become a Commentator

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What is a Commentator

A commentator is the voice that brings live events to life for audiences at home. They deliver real-time analysis, describe the action, and share expert insights during sports matches, news events, and entertainment broadcasts. It is one of the most exciting careers in Australian media.

Each day on the job looks different. Before a broadcast, you will research teams, players, and recent results to prepare sharp, informed commentary. During the event, you have to think fast, speak clearly, and keep the energy high for your audience.

Commentators work with producers, directors, and fellow broadcasters to make every show run smoothly. Many start out at community radio stations or by covering local sports events. Building a demo reel and getting heard is the best way to open doors in this field.

Streaming platforms and digital sports channels are creating more opportunities than ever for new commentators. With the right skills, training, and dedication, you can build a career covering the events you love. Whether it is sport, news, or entertainment, the demand for great commentators is growing.

Career Outlook for Commentator

Commentating suits people who enjoy live events and want a career in media. Most commentators are aged between 25 and 55. Many start in their early twenties through community radio or student media.

Full-time roles exist at major broadcasters, but many commentators work freelance or casually. Pay ranges from around $55,000 per year at entry level to over $130,000 for top national commentators. The average salary for related broadcast roles is about $97,000 per year (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025).

Future demand for commentators is strong (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). Growth in streaming and digital sports is creating new roles across the country. Commentators who cover many formats and adapt to digital audiences are best placed for long-term growth.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become a Commentator

Step 1: Complete the Certificate IV in Screen and Media (CUA41225)

Enrol in the Certificate IV in Screen and Media (CUA41225) at a TAFE or registered training organisation (RTO). This qualification takes 12 months full-time and covers media production, broadcasting techniques, and audio presentation. It is a practical entry point into the broadcast industry and is widely recognised by Australian employers.

Step 2: Get on air through community radio or online streaming

Join a community radio station or start a sports commentary channel on a streaming platform. Community radio offers free training, real on-air experience, and access to broadcast equipment. Aim to build at least 50 hours of recorded commentary across different events and formats. The Community Broadcasting Association of Australia (CBAA) can help you find a station near you.

Step 3: Complete the Diploma of Screen and Media (CUA51020) or a communications degree

Pursue the Diploma of Screen and Media (CUA51020) at a TAFE or a Bachelor of Communication at a university. The Diploma takes 1 to 2 years part-time and covers broadcast production, news delivery, and media ethics. A bachelor degree takes 3 years full-time and strengthens your prospects for television and national radio roles.

Step 4: Build a professional demo reel

Edit your best commentary recordings into a 3 to 5 minute demo reel. Employers and event organisers use this to assess your voice, pacing, knowledge, and on-air presence. Keep it updated as your skills grow. Tailor it to your target format, whether sport, news, or entertainment.

Step 5: Join MEAA and grow your professional network

Become a member of the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA). MEAA is the peak union and professional body for Australian media workers. It offers workplace advice, career support, and access to an industry network that can lead to paid commentary roles.

Step 6: Apply for entry-level commentary and broadcasting roles

Apply for junior roles at local radio stations, regional TV stations, or online sports media companies. Many commentators start as research assistants or production assistants before moving into on-air roles. Be open to regional postings and freelance work as a way to build your broadcast career over time.

What does a Commentator do?

A commentator’s day starts with research. Before a broadcast, they check player stats, recent form, and any news that could affect the event. They prepare scripts and talking points with their production team. During the event, they deliver live commentary, cover each key moment, and keep the audience hooked. After the broadcast, many take part in post-event chats, review their work, and start getting ready for the next one.

Tasks

A commentator brings live events to life through their words. They cover everything from the action on the field to the stories behind the players. Here are the main tasks you will handle in this role.

Researching events — Reviewing player stats, team history, and recent results before each broadcast.
Preparing scripts — Building outlines and talking points to guide your commentary during the event.
Delivering live commentary — Describing the action in real time and offering sharp, well-informed analysis.
Engaging the audience — Keeping energy and excitement levels high throughout the full broadcast.
Working with producers — Collaborating with the production team to ensure smooth and professional broadcasts.
Post-event analysis — Reviewing your performance and key moments from the event to keep improving.
Staying up to date — Following rule changes, player transfers, and industry news to stay credible.

Skills for Success

To succeed as a commentator, you need more than just a good voice. You need the ability to think fast, speak clearly, and hold an audience through the full length of a broadcast. Confidence in front of a microphone or camera is a must.

Knowing your subject inside and out is just as important. Whether you are covering football, tennis, or breaking news, your audience will notice if your facts are wrong. Solid research habits and a deep passion for your field will set you apart.

Teamwork, composure, and the drive to keep improving are key traits for any commentator. You will often work in fast-paced, high-pressure environments where mistakes happen in real time. The commentators who thrive are those who learn quickly and keep showing up.

Skills & Attributes

Clear verbal communication
Deep knowledge of the subject or sport
Quick thinking and real-time reaction
Storytelling and audience engagement
Research and preparation skills
Composure under pressure
Confidence on microphone or camera
Teamwork and collaboration
Adaptability across formats and platforms
Attention to detail and accuracy
Strong listening skills
Professionalism and media ethics

Average Salaries

The average yearly salary for a commentator in Australia is around $85,000 (source: yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). Entry-level roles pay between $50,000 and $65,000 per year. Top commentators at major networks earn over $130,000. Pay depends on the format, employer, and years of on-air experience.

min $55 K

max $130 K

av $85 K

Resources For Commentators

About the author

Laura Atkinson

Explore career guides by Laura Atkinson. Practical how-to-become advice on qualifications, skills, salary and job outlook across Australia.