How to become a journalist
Research, compose and edit news stories, reports and opinion pieces for print or electronic publication.
What does a journalist do?
Journalists research, compose and edit news stories, reports and opinion pieces for print or electronic publication. They may write for news, travel or entertainment purposes or for the advertisement of products.
Duties and tasks
- Analyse current events, news articles, films, books, performances and celebrity news to write opinion pieces and reviews.
- Create advertisements for a variety of media based on product attributes and targeted market.
- Research and analyse information on important current events, product information, recent studies or entertainment using factual information, interviews, police reports and investigations.
- Work with clients, management, editors and stakeholders to produce appropriate content for intended audience and purpose.
- Write and edit informative material for textbooks, product manuals, references, brochures, etc.
- Write and edit pieces on public interest for a variety of sources such as television, newspapers, magazines and online news sources.
Industry bodies
- Australian Society of Authors (ASA)
- Institute of Professional Editors Limited
- Journalism Education and Research Association of Australia
- Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA)
Related jobs
- Author
- Columnist
- Feature writer
- Leader writer
- Media producer & presenter
- Public relations professional
- Reporter
- Researcher
- Technical writer
- Writer and editor
Discover related degrees
Undergraduate USA-BCJ-DEG
Undergraduate GRF-COM-DEG
Available majors
- Major in Journalism
- Major in Public Relations
- Major in Business Communication
- Major in Creative Writing
- Major in Screen and Media Studies
Undergraduate USA-COM-DEG
Discover related subjects
Postgraduate SWI-PWR60004
Related degrees
Undergraduate USA-COMM1074
Undergraduate GRF-LHS155
Related degrees
Step up your career with these resources
10 fascinating uni subjects that are open to everyone in 2025
Want to understand the psychology behind Trumpism? Push for better climate action? Or improve your cultural sensitivity in healthcare? These online subjects—and more!—are now accepting 2025 enrolments.
5 small business courses for self-starters
Whether you’re a small business owner or plotting away at a side hustle, there are many online business courses to choose from to help you get in touch with your entrepreneurial side and launch your ideas off the ground.
How to negotiate a higher salary
Not sure what to say when negotiating your salary? Follow these tips from career strategist Kelly Magowan next time you need to make your case with an employer.
Is a career in project management right for you?
Do you get a kick out of thinking big and getting things done? You could make a great project manager.
Together, we've got this
Your dedicated advisor will help you enrol, plan your studies and find confidence in the knowledge that you belong at university. They’ve helped thousands before you. Now it’s your turn.