Illustrator

An Illustrator creates original visual artwork and graphics for commercial, editorial, publishing, and digital media purposes in Australian studios, agencies, or as a freelancer. They interpret briefs from clients or art directors, develop concepts through sketches and digital tools, and produce finished illustrations that communicate ideas, narratives, or brand messages. The role involves balancing artistic creativity with technical proficiency in design software, meeting deadlines, and adhering to client specifications and brand guidelines.

Interpret client briefs and art direction to develop illustration concepts that align with project objectives and target audience. Produce preliminary sketches and concept artwork in response to creative briefs using traditional media or digital tools. Research visual styles, subject matter, and reference materials to inform illustration development and maintain contemporary relevance. Create finished illustrations using design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop), Procreate, or Clip Studio Paint. Apply colour theory, composition, and visual hierarchy to illustrations to enhance readability and aesthetic impact. Incorporate typography and text elements into illustrations for editorial layouts, book covers, and promotional materials. Revise illustrations based on client feedback and art director notes while maintaining artistic integrity and project scope. Manage multiple illustration projects concurrently, tracking deadlines and delivery schedules using project management systems.

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.

Income is wildly unpredictable, especially starting out. Freelancers often undercut each other, clients want revisions beyond the agreed scope, and AI image generators may be reducing some entry-level work. Studio jobs exist but are competitive and often underpaid for the skill required.

Remote freelance work is common, but competing nationally means lower rates. Publishing and editorial work clusters in major cities where media companies are based. Regional opportunities are limited unless you're already established and can work remotely for interstate clients.

Published for ANZSCO unit group 2324, the wider group this job sits in, not for this job on its own.

This is the median for full-time employees who are not managers and are paid at the adult rate, before tax and salary sacrifice. It is a guide to what the work pays, not a wage rate.

Source: ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours, May 2025, customised report.

• Adaptability and Flexibilitycore
• Attention to Detailcore
• Continuous Learning and Upskillingcore
• Customer Needs Assessmentcore
• Digital Literacycore
• Problem Solvingcore
• Research and Analysiscore
• Stakeholder Communicationcore
• Team Collaborationcore
• Time Management and Prioritisationcore
• Verbal Communicationcore
• Workload Self-Managementcore
• Written Communicationcore
• Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity
• Electronic Document Management
• Email Management
• Goal Setting and Planning
• Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive)
• Invoicing and Billing Administration
• Negotiation
• Process Improvement Identification

• ABS OSCA 2024, occupation definition and task statements
• ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours, May 2025, customised report.
• 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