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How to Become An Interior Decorator

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What is a Interior Decorator

An interior decorator makes spaces look great and work well for the people who use them. They plan colour schemes and pick furniture and fittings. They create layouts that suit the client’s style and the purpose of the space.

Interior decorators meet with clients to understand what they want. They design every detail and prepare drawings and mood boards. Then they work with builders and tradespeople to get the design built right.

Many decorators manage whole projects, from the first meeting to the final styling. Some run their own business. Others work for design studios, furniture retailers, or property developers.

It is a career that blends creativity with practical skills. If you love making spaces beautiful and enjoy working with people, interior decoration is a rewarding path.

Compare courses and programs in Interior Design

Career Outlook for Interior Decorator

The outlook for interior decorators in Australia is positive. Around 19,300 people work in this field nationally (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). The industry is growing, with about 700 new positions added each year. Your Career rates future demand for this role as Strong.

The median age in the field is 40. About 30% of decorators work part-time (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). This makes it a career with real flexibility for different life stages. Full-time decorators work an average of 43 hours per week. The workforce is 73% female.

Rising interest in green design, home renovation, and business fit-outs is driving demand. Decorators with strong digital skills and a solid portfolio are well placed to find work. Joining a professional body also helps build a client base.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become an Interior Decorator

Step 1: Build Your Foundation in Design

Start by building a strong base in design principles. Study colour theory, space, and Australian design styles through books, shows, and online resources. This step takes around 3 to 6 months of active self-study. It prepares you well for formal training.

Step 2: Complete the Certificate IV in Interior Decoration (MSF40122)

Enrol in the Certificate IV in Interior Decoration (MSF40122) at a TAFE or registered training organisation (RTO). This takes 12 to 18 months full-time or up to 2 years part-time. It covers colour theory, space planning, furniture choice, client meetings, and design drawing. It is the core VET entry qualification for interior decorators in Australia.

Step 3: Consider the Diploma of Interior Design (MSF50222)

After your Certificate IV, consider the Diploma of Interior Design (MSF50222) at a TAFE or RTO. This takes 18 to 24 months full-time or part-time. It builds skills in space design, project records, and project delivery. Many employers prefer diploma-qualified candidates for senior roles.

Step 4: Gain Hands-On Experience and Build a Portfolio

Seek work experience or an entry-level role at a design studio, furniture retailer, or property styling firm. Aim for at least 12 months of practical work. Record completed projects in a portfolio. A strong portfolio is key when applying for roles or winning your first clients.

Step 5: Join a Professional Association

Apply for membership with the Design Institute of Australia (DIA) or the Interior Design Association (IDA). Membership builds trust, links you with industry peers, and gives access to learning events. Aim to join within your first two years of practice.

Step 6: Establish Your Career or Specialisation

With experience and a portfolio, apply for roles at design firms or launch your own business. Many decorators choose to focus on home, business, or green design. Keep your skills current through workshops, trade shows, and design magazines.

What does an Interior Decorator do?

Every day as an interior decorator is a mix of creativity and planning. You start by meeting clients, hearing what they want, and getting to know the space. Then you design the layout, pick the colours and materials, and prepare drawings to show how it will look. You work with builders and tradespeople to make sure the design comes to life the right way. You track budgets, manage timelines, and keep clients updated as the project moves forward.

Tasks

Interior decorators do both creative and hands-on work every day. They move between client meetings, design work, and visits to sites or showrooms.

  • Discuss design ideas – Meets with clients to understand their vision and requirements.
  • Analyse client needs – Reviews the space and brief to shape the design direction.
  • Plan and design interiors – Develops layouts for homes, offices, shops, and public spaces.
  • Design infrastructure – Plans lighting, climate control, and communications layouts.
  • Prepare drawings and samples – Creates detailed plans, mood boards, and material samples.
  • Make design adjustments – Updates designs based on client feedback or site conditions.
  • Advise on tradespeople – Recommends painters, carpenters, and other specialists.
  • Design furniture and fittings – Selects or creates custom pieces to suit the overall look.
  • Work with builders – Works with architects and contractors during the build stage.
  • Keep up with trends – Stays current with design styles, products, and regulations.
  • Manage projects – Keeps timelines on track and budgets in check.
  • Run a business – For self-employed decorators, handles clients, quotes, and finances.

Skills for Success

To work as an interior decorator, you need a creative eye. You also need the ability to turn ideas into real, liveable spaces. You should feel confident with colour theory, space planning, and materials.

Strong people skills matter too. You will spend a lot of time listening to clients, pitching ideas, and working with tradespeople. Design software skills and a head for budgets are big assets. So is the ability to juggle multiple projects as your career grows.

Skills & Attributes

  • Eye for colour, proportion, and spatial design
  • Client communication and active listening
  • Knowledge of design principles and current trends
  • Proficiency in design software (e.g. AutoCAD, SketchUp, 3ds Max)
  • Ability to prepare drawings, samples, and mood boards
  • Understanding of materials, textiles, and furniture construction
  • Project management and time management
  • Knowledge of building codes and Australian Standards
  • Problem-solving and adaptability
  • Budgeting and cost estimation
  • Working with architects, builders, and tradespeople
  • Business skills for those running their own practice

Average Salaries

An interior decorator in Australia earns about $88,000 a year (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). New decorators start on around $55,000. Senior decorators can earn $110,000 or more.

min $55 K

max $110 K

av $88 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.