Author

An author creates original written content for publication in books, journals, magazines, digital platforms, or broadcast media. They research topics, develop narratives or arguments, draft and revise manuscripts, and work with editors and publishers to bring their work to market. Authors may specialise in fiction, non-fiction, poetry, screenwriting, or other literary forms.

Conduct primary and secondary research to develop factual accuracy and depth in written work. Develop plot structures, character arcs, and narrative frameworks for fiction or creative works. Draft manuscripts and revise content multiple times to refine prose, pacing, and coherence. Negotiate publishing contracts and intellectual property terms with publishers or production companies. Work with editors to incorporate feedback, restructure content, and meet publication standards. Develop and pitch book concepts, outlines, or treatments to publishers, agents, or commissioning bodies. Manage relationships with literary agents, publicists, and marketing teams to promote published works. Adapt written content for different formats (e.g. print, digital, audio, screenplay adaptation).

The standard entry pathway requires a bachelor degree or higher (ABS Skill Level 1). Specific qualification requirements vary by employer and state. Some employers may accept equivalent experience. Check yourcareer.gov.au for available courses and dewr.gov.au/skills-reform/free-tafe for subsidised training options.

Most authors don't make a living wage from writing alone. You'll likely need a second income source (teaching, freelancing, day job) for years or indefinitely. Publishing contracts often pay small advances that take months to earn out, and royalties can be tiny. You're competing against thousands of other writers for publisher attention.

Most authors today mix traditional publishing with self-publishing, freelance writing, and online platforms, which you can do from anywhere in Australia. Remote collaboration with editors and publishers is standard.

• Active Listeningcore
• Adaptability and Flexibilitycore
• Attention to Detailcore
• Continuous Learning and Upskillingcore
• Correspondence Draftingcore
• Digital Literacycore
• Goal Setting and Planningcore
• Process Documentationcore
• Report Writingcore
• Research and Analysiscore
• Time Management and Prioritisationcore
• Workload Self-Managementcore
• Written Communicationcore
• Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity
• Electronic Document Management
• Empathy and Emotional Intelligence
• Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive)
• Inclusive Practice
• Microsoft Office Suite Proficiency
• Negotiation
• Stakeholder Communication

• ABS OSCA 2024, occupation definition and task statements
• ABS, 2021 Census of Population and Housing based on usual place of residence (Custom Report). OSCA Experimental Estimates.

Role data is drawn from official Australian Government sources, and each figure names where it comes from. Where a role is not in the ABS classification, the page shows no government figures for it. Data may not reflect every local variation.

Where our numbers come from.

Last updated: 30 October 2026