Thinking about arts careers? Whether you’re a natural performer, a visual storyteller or someone who can’t resist the pull of a blank canvas, the creative arts offer a huge range of possibilities. And in Australia, creativity isn’t just a hobby. It’s part of who we are as communities and cultures. From community murals to festivals that spotlight Australian talent, the arts shape how we see ourselves.

A career in the arts isn’t always easy. Careers in creative industries are competitive, fast-changing and shaped by everything from funding shifts to new technologies. But they’re also rewarding, meaningful and full of genuine career opportunities for people who want to make an impact through their work.

Ready to explore where your creativity could take you?

Opportunities in the arts

A career in the arts is about turning your creative talents into a profession, and there are more creative career paths than ever. Recent data from the Bureau of Communications, Arts and Regional Research even shows that Australia’s cultural and creative sector contributed $67.4 billion to the economy in 2023–24.

The arts span visual arts, performing arts, writing, filmmaking, design, photography, animation, podcasting and digital arts (like video game design). This diversity means there’s something for everyone, whether you prefer to work behind the scenes or step into the spotlight.

Working in the arts is also about communication and storytelling. Artists don’t just make things look good. They shape culture, challenge ideas and influence the way people think and feel. Whether you’re designing a brand identity, choreographing a performance or editing a short film, you’re contributing to cultural and creative life.

This is why there are so many art careers across different industries, including advertising, media, education, publishing, community arts, design, gaming and more.

Where you can work

Galleries, museums, studios and theatres are traditional bases for jobs in the arts, but they’re only one part of the landscape.

Creative professionals work in:

• Agencies and production studios
• Community arts organisations
• The public sector, through cultural programs
• Publishing, media and advertising
• Fashion, textiles and design
• Digital creative companies
  

Many people also combine client work with personal cultural practice. For example, teaching while maintaining a creative studio or freelancing while working on long-term projects. Digital work has expanded the field. Artists now build online shops, run Patreon communities, produce short-form video content or work remotely as designers, animators or even a web designer. Remote and hybrid studios give creatives the freedom to work from anywhere.

Why people choose the arts

For many people, the arts offer a sense of purpose that is hard to find elsewhere. Creativity gives you a voice and the chance to communicate ideas in ways that connect with others.

Studying creative arts degrees helps to develop strong technical and conceptual skills, with the bonus of building a supportive community as you go. It’s personally fulfilling work, and the creative process (from concept to final piece) gives a sense of momentum and meaning.

There are also long-term career opportunities across sectors that rely on imagination and storytelling: education, cultural development, creative media, regional arts, community engagement and beyond.

Challenges in the arts

Working in the arts can sometimes be challenging. Some arts jobs rely on short-term contracts, project funding or freelance work. The creative industries evolve quickly, which means competition can be high. 

Technology like AI is shifting expectations in fields such as illustration, animation, writing, and design. Plus, funding cycles can impact stability. Understanding job advertising trends helps you make informed decisions about different career options.

Some artists also balance multiple income streams, building a portfolio career across teaching, freelance work, commissions and community projects.

How to start a career in the arts

Education, experience and persistence form the foundation of most careers in creative industries.

Start by exploring which arts course aligns with your interests. If you want to study arts at university, our Bachelor of Arts is delivered entirely online, so you can study from wherever you are. You’ll build a broad foundation in philosophy, literature, media, writing and cultural studies before choosing the areas you want to focus on.

There are plenty of study options, including flexible study if you’re juggling work or other commitments. And with Charles Sturt being Australia’s most experienced online uni, you’ll have the support you need from day one.

Depending on your major, you could build skills that lead to creative careers in areas such as design, digital content, communications, community arts, or cultural development.

Beyond formal study, experience matters. Volunteer at festivals, join community projects, apply for internships or participate in exhibitions. Build a portfolio that showcases your practice.

Networking also matters. Attend events, follow relevant organisations and connect with other creatives. A strong network often leads to unexpected opportunities.

Staying open to learning keeps your work fresh. This could mean learning a new medium, exploring digital tools or taking short courses that broaden your creative skill set. The industry is constantly evolving, so you should be too.

Next steps

A career in the arts is more than just a job – it’s a way of life. One that allows you to express your creativity, connect with others and make a lasting impact on the world around you. 

Ready to turn your passion into a profession? Explore our Bachelor of Arts. It’s offered online, so you can study your way and build a degree around your interests, work and life commitments. You’ll also find the entry requirements and course fee information so you know exactly what to expect.

And if you want personalised guidance, get in touch with our team for advice on where arts careers can take you.