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How to Become A Journalist

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What is a Journalist

A journalist researches and reports news stories that keep the public informed. They work across newspapers, magazines, TV, radio, and online platforms, covering everything from local events to national politics.

Each day brings a different set of tasks. Journalists gather facts from interviews and public records, then write clear stories that make complex issues easy to understand. They fact-check their work, meet tight deadlines, and adapt quickly to breaking news.

Beyond writing, journalists attend press conferences, review documents, and work with editors and photographers. Many journalists develop a specialty, such as health, sport, or environment. This helps them build expertise and stand out in the field.

Digital media has changed how journalists work and how audiences consume news. Modern journalists also create video, podcasts, and social content alongside their written work. It is an exciting career for those who love to tell stories and make a real impact. Journalism can change how people see the world.

Explore study options in Journalism

Career Outlook for Journalist

Journalism is a well-established profession in Australia with around 23,000 people working as journalists and other writers (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Most journalists work full-time, with 82 per cent in full-time roles averaging 42 hours per week. The median age of the workforce is 40, and 65 per cent of journalists are women.

Annual employment is projected to fall by about 300 positions per year (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). This reflects the decline of traditional print media. Digital and broadcast journalism continue to generate new roles. Median weekly earnings are $1,722 before tax, which works out to around $89,700 a year. Entry-level pay typically starts near $60,000, while experienced journalists and editors can earn well above $100,000.

The shift to digital platforms has changed the shape of the profession. Journalists who can produce video, podcasts, and data-driven stories are in stronger demand. Specialist reporters in health, climate, or technology are also sought after. Audiences want trusted, in-depth coverage in these fields.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become a Journalist

Step 1: Understand the role and its demands

A journalist researches, writes, and reports news stories across print, digital, radio, and television. The work requires strong writing skills, a sharp eye for detail, and the ability to meet tight deadlines. Read widely, follow current affairs daily, and build the habit of asking why and how. This foundation matters before you invest in formal study.

Step 2: Complete a relevant bachelor degree

Most employers prefer a bachelor degree. The most direct path is a Bachelor of Journalism or a Bachelor of Communication (Journalism). A Bachelor of Arts with a media or communications major is also accepted. Full-time degrees take three years at most Australian universities. Part-time options are available. Confirm current course codes on training.gov.au or the TEQSA register.

Step 3: Build your portfolio with real work

Apply for internships at newspapers, radio stations, TV outlets, or digital news sites while you study. Contribute to your student newspaper or campus radio. Write for community publications or start a blog on a beat you know well. Employers want to see clips. A portfolio of 10 to 15 strong pieces makes a clear difference at interview stage.

Step 4: Join the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA)

The MEAA is the peak union and professional body for Australian journalists. Student membership is low-cost. It gives you access to the MEAA Code of Ethics, industry news, and networking events. Joining early connects you with working journalists across the country.

Step 5: Apply for entry-level roles and keep developing

Entry-level titles include cadet journalist, junior reporter, digital producer, and sub-editor. Start with regional outlets, community media, or digital-first publishers. Once employed, seek mentors and apply for Walkley Foundation training programs. Consider a postgraduate degree in journalism if you want to move into specialist or leadership roles.

What does a Journalist do?

A journalist’s day moves quickly. It starts with checking the news for story leads. Then comes research, interviews, and writing. Once a draft is done, it goes through editing and fact-checking before it is published or broadcast. Journalists also attend press conferences, work with editors, and pitch new ideas. They track how their stories connect with audiences. In print, radio, or digital media, the goal is the same: tell accurate stories that matter to the public.

Tasks

Journalists tell the stories that shape public life. They research, write, and edit news and features for newspapers, magazines, websites, television, and radio. The work demands precision, curiosity, and the ability to communicate complex ideas in plain language on deadline.

  • Researching news stories — collecting and analysing facts from interviews, documents, investigations, and direct observation.
  • Writing articles — producing news reports, commentaries, and feature stories for print, digital, and broadcast media.
  • Editing content — reviewing copy to ensure it meets grammar, style, accuracy, and legal standards.
  • Conducting interviews — speaking with sources to gather information and insight for stories.
  • Covering events — attending press conferences, public meetings, and community events to report on what happens.
  • Collaborating with editors — working with senior editors to agree on content direction and meet editorial guidelines.
  • Critiquing media — reviewing books, films, and cultural works for editorial sections and columns.
  • Researching technical content — writing technical or information-based material for reports, manuals, or multimedia products.

Skills for Success

To thrive as a journalist, you need a mix of practical skills and personal qualities. Writing clearly and concisely is the most important skill, as readers and viewers need to understand your stories quickly. Research and fact-checking skills help you find the truth and build stories that hold up to scrutiny.

Adaptability is key, since the news can change in minutes and you need to keep up. Curiosity, persistence, and a genuine interest in how the world works will take you further than almost anything else. As you grow, digital skills such as video editing, podcasting, and social media become just as important as writing.

Skills & Attributes

  • Strong writing and editing skills
  • Research and investigative abilities
  • Critical thinking and analytical skills
  • Effective communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Time management and organisational skills
  • Ability to work across media formats (print, digital, broadcast)
  • Understanding of media ethics and legal issues
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
  • Networking and relationship-building skills
  • Curiosity and a passion for storytelling
  • Familiarity with digital tools and social media platforms
  • Ability to work in a team
  • Knowledge of current events and public affairs

Average Salaries

The average yearly salary for a journalist in Australia is around $89,700 (source: Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Pay is based on experience, specialisation, and the size of the media outlet. Entry-level roles typically start at around $60,000. Senior journalists and editors can earn $130,000 or more.

min $60 K

max $130 K

av $90 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson
Laura Atkinson

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