How to Get Work Experience at A Magazine

If you’ve ever dreamed of working behind the scenes at a glossy magazine—or curating content for a leading digital publication—work experience is your gateway in. With media and publishing being highly competitive industries in Australia, internships remain one of the most effective ways to get your foot in the door.

Whether you want to be an editor, writer, content producer, or part of the advertising or design team, here’s how to make your first step count.

Why Work Experience Matters in Media

In 2025, the media landscape is more fragmented but more accessible than ever. Print titles are fewer, but digital publishing is thriving, and major publications now blend editorial with social, podcasting and video. But one thing hasn’t changed: experience counts.

Editors and hiring managers often prioritise candidates with real-world industry exposure. Just ask Amanda Taylor, editor of Total Girl, who started her career with a journalism degree and work experience at her local paper:

“Publishing is notoriously hard to break into, but I was determined to become a journalist. I stayed in touch with editors and took on unpaid internships. It all paid off when I landed my first magazine role.”

Who Can Apply for Magazine Internships?

Work experience opportunities vary by publication and platform:

• High school students may be eligible for short placements (usually 1 week) during school work experience programs.
• University students studying journalism, media, communications or marketing can often apply for formal internships tied to course credit.
• Graduates and career-changers may still be considered, especially by independent or digital publishers—though opportunities can be harder to find.

Larger publishers like Are Media (home of Marie Claire, New Idea and Better Homes & Gardens) and Pedestrian Group (which includes Pedestrian.TV, Refinery29, Vice) run competitive internship programs—check their careers pages for current opportunities.

How to Apply for Magazine Work Experience

Recruitment is often seasonal and online, so you’ll need a standout application. Amanda Taylor recommends the basics:

✔ Application checklist:

• A professional cover letter tailored to the publication
• A short, up-to-date resume (1–2 pages)
• Links or PDFs of published work, blog posts, uni assignments, or writing samples
• Correct spelling and grammar—essential for any writing role
• A professional-sounding email address (e.g. [email protected])

Check our guide on how to apply for competitive internships for extra tips.

What to Expect During Your Internship

Magazine work experience won’t always be glamorous. You probably won’t be writing the lead feature or styling celebrities on day one. Instead, expect to start with:

• Administrative tasks (e.g. filing, replying to reader emails)
• Assisting on photo shoots or transcribing interviews
• Helping editorial teams with research or fact-checking
• Content scheduling or basic CMS publishing for digital teams

Intern Stephanie Dalzell, now a digital journalist, recalls:

“I interned at Girlfriend, NW, and Marie Claire. It wasn’t all glam, but it gave me the contacts and confidence I needed to break into media.”

Make the Most of Your Time There

Even the mundane tasks are an opportunity to build relationships and show initiative. Editor Amanda Taylor shares:

“If you’re photocopying or making coffee, use it as a chance to meet people. Show that you’re friendly, helpful, and serious about your work.”

Here’s how to stand out:

• Arrive on time and dress appropriately for the brand
• Take notes and ask thoughtful questions (without hovering)
• Say thank you at the end—and follow up with a polite email

What If You Don’t Get In?

Don’t be discouraged. Entry into top-tier magazine internships is extremely competitive. If you get a knock-back, ask (politely) for feedback and try smaller or independent outlets. Many emerging digital publications are more accessible and can still give you valuable bylines.

And remember: you don’t need permission to publish. Start a blog, podcast, Substack, or Instagram project that shows your writing or content creation skills. It could become your best portfolio piece.

Start Your Publishing Career Path

If you’re passionate about storytelling, fashion, features or lifestyle writing, consider building your skills through a writing or media communications course. Many internships now favour students with formal training in digital publishing, social media and audience engagement.

Explore journalism courses or content marketing qualifications to support your entry into the industry.