How To Become A Graphic Designer In Australia?

 

Are you interested in becoming a graphic designer? If so, you have come to the right place.

 

There is a high demand for graphic designers in Australia, and the salaries are also quite competitive compared to other professions.

 

Graphic design is the art and practice of using textual and visual content to plan and project ideas and experiences. In a nutshell, graphic designers use various multimedia tools to produce eye-catching visuals that define the world around us.

 

Besides having an artistic side and exceptional computer skills, designers also possess a keen sense of observation, an eye for detail, and an appreciation for all things beautiful. Overall, graphic designing is one of the most fulfilling careers you can pursue.

 

In this post, you learn everything about how to become a graphic designer in Australia to live the life of your dreams, including what graphic design is, how much salary they earn, what jobs there are, courses, qualifications, and much more.

 

 

1. What Does A Graphic Designer Do?

 

Graphic designers produce visual concepts and convey their insightful ideas in brochures, advertisements, and other marketing communication materials, such as newspapers, magazines, websites, and books. 

 

Some graphic designers work with a joint team for specialised design agencies, while others work independently and are self-employed. Images, text, colour, and animations are all manipulated by digital and print designers using complex graphics tools and techniques.

 

The majority of graphic designers work full-time to comply with deadlines. Sometimes, clients may want weekend or evening meetings, so self-employed graphic designers must be ready to work flexible hours. In this industry, client satisfaction and customer service are critical to success. 

 

Furthermore, becoming a successful graphic designer includes learning to market services, bid on contracts, and build a steady client base.

 

 

2. Major Duties and Tasks of a Graphic Designer

 

• Negotiate design solutions with management, clients, production and sales staff.

• Talk to clients to understand their visual communication requirements.

• Develop rough design sketches for the client. 

• Prepare illustrations, diagrams, and layouts to communicate design concepts.

• Create designs for digital or print publications or signage.

• Undertake analyses and research functional communication requirements. 

• Determine the constraints and objectives of the design brief by consulting with stakeholders and clients. 

• Design and set up exhibitions for educational and advertising purposes.

• Carry out and supervise all production stages for the chosen media.

• Develop visual solutions and identify communication issues.

• Propose and present designs to clients for approval.

 

 

3. What To Learn To Become a Graphic Designer?

 

To become a graphic designer, you need to have a sense of imagination, originality, style, creativity, outstanding communication skills, and experience with design software, computer graphics, and animation. 

 

Apart from that, you must carefully prepare for further education and have a visual portfolio of the creative work you produced during high school. 

 

Complete a year of art and design courses in high school to improve and learn the fundamentals of art and design. Furthermore, you need to know the specific qualifications required for the design school or university.

 

Not only that, but you should gather as much information as possible from their institution's guidance counsellors, art department, and other administrative staff. They can assist with learning and getting started with the application process.

 

For most advanced or entry-level graphic design jobs in Australia, you must undertake a formal qualification in graphic design, including a Bachelor of Design (Graphic Design) or a Diploma of Graphic Design (CUA50715). Pursuing these degrees from an accredited college, university, or private design school would be best.

 

However, if you go for an associate's degree, you can get your certification from different other institutions in Australia.

 

After graduation, a two-year degree would enable you to apply for assistant-level jobs in the graphic design industry. If you already have a bachelor's degree in another discipline. In that case, you can enrol on a two- or three-year graphic design programme to learn the professional criteria and obtain the skills required to work in this field.

 

Suppose you are joining a graphic design college to continue your education. In that case, it is best to get in touch with the admissions office and inquire about the application process and what you need to apply — for example, transcripts, portfolio, sample, resume, and more.

 

 

4. What Subjects Are Needed To Become A Graphic Designer?

 

Your subjects may vary depending on the graphic design field you want to pursue.

 

They include computerised design, website design, printing techniques, studio art, commercial graphics production, motion graphics, and other courses under a graphic design or fine art program. 

 

Other graphic design courses may focus on learning design principles and theory and understanding the design process.

 

Additionally, suppose you pursue a liberal arts degree. In that case, it may include subjects like sociology, art history, cultural studies, psychology, foreign languages, writing, business, and marketing. 

 

Such courses allow aspiring graphic designers to be well-prepared and better qualified for their field, which usually involves a lot of collaborative efforts and communication.

 

 

5. Why Obtain A Formal Graphic Design Degree?

 

While you can enter the industry by learning on your own or through on-the-job training, obtaining a bachelor's degree in graphic design has many advantages. 

 

For instance, you are eligible to apply for graphic designer positions. Most companies in Australia will only consider you for the job if you have a formal graphic design degree or certification. 

 

Additionally, having a formal degree will improve your chances of earning a better salary. You can make thousands of dollars extra than an individual without any professional degree.

 

Besides, employers are more likely to recruit people with advanced experience, skills, and formal training as they stand out amongst their peers. Finally, learning alongside people with the same aspirations will help you provide the expertise and skill set required for your career. 

 

Also, it will enable you to create a graphic design portfolio that incorporates all of the work you've done so far and work with industry professionals, both on- and off-campus.

 

Remember, school guidance and personal mentoring can not replace YouTube videos and online training courses. Hence, those interested in a graphic design career should consider taking a bachelor's degree programme.

 

 

6. How To Become A Graphic Designer Without A Degree?

 

Attending a reputable design school would assist you in becoming a skilled and trained designer. However, considering the high cost and other factors, not everyone can afford to attend design schools. 

 

You can only fulfil your goal of becoming a professional designer if you are passionate and committed, even if you lack formal education. 

 

Suppose you wish to avoid going to college or changing your career. In that case, graphic design is the right choice, as it only requires a little education. 

 

Being a popular field, you can independently pursue a career in graphic design if you have the right tools and skills. A degree can certainly help, but do not worry if you don't have one. Here are a few things you can follow to become a graphic designer without a degree:

 

• Learn about design, including design methods, principles, and design programmes. You can take online classes for it.

 

• Practise designing to develop your style. Then, use this and your assignments to create your portfolio.

 

• Consider doing a specialisation in at least one area of design. Specialists are more in demand than usual designers as they have more expertise in one field.

 

• Learn some vital business skills if you want to pursue freelance design jobs. This will allow you to meet prospective clients confidently, and you will only have to rely on yourself to find employment.

 

If you take the proper steps, becoming a graphic designer is relatively easy. While specific positions may require obtaining a degree, you can showcase your abilities by creating an impressive portfolio. 

 

Some employers might be looking for an individual with a degree. Still, others may get persuaded to recruit you solely based on your design work.

 

 

7. Keeping Up With The Industry Advancements and Trends

 

Graphic designers must keep up with the design industry's technical advancements and trends. By getting hands-on professional training, they should also stay updated with the latest design and computer graphics software. 

 

It is well-known that customers' desires and tastes keep changing, so graphic designers must perform their best to keep up with the ever-changing trends.

 

To become a successful graphic designer, you must have the potential to respond to new ideas, work under pressure, and know about the latest music and fashion trends.

 

 

8. Skills and Attributes Required For Success

 

Graphic designers must maintain a portfolio of projects, generate a consistent output of up-to-date and high-quality work, and remain on top of industry-specific developments. They must have artistic abilities and imaginative flair. 

 

Additionally, graphic designers require outstanding attention to detail, work well under pressure, and develop creative solutions. It is also essential for them to be proficient in a variety of graphic design software programmes. 

 

Graphic designers work mostly independently and within a team, take the initiative, meet company deadlines, and possess self-discipline and excellent time management skills.

 

A knack for marketing and sales and maintaining a solid business sense are desirable qualities, especially for those who run their own business or work as freelance designers.

 

Graphic designers should have exceptional communication skills to meet client needs. As you will be working with many individuals, you must express your thoughts verbally, visually, or in writing.

 

 

9. Life After Graduation: Graphic Design Job Prospects in Australia

 

Now that we have covered how to become a graphic designer in Australia, you must be wondering what the graphic design job prospects are in Australia after graduation. You can pursue different career opportunities in this field and work in several sectors that require graphic design skills. 

 

There are endless possibilities for graphic designers, ranging from working with advertising agencies or taking up behind-the-scenes roles and creating illustrations and layouts for a brand.

 

Suppose you have artistic ability and possess visual and verbal communication skills. In that case, you can also start working independently as a freelance designer. 

 

When planning your future, you can consider the following career options, depending on your areas of interest, strengths, and skill set:

 

• Commercial and Industry Designer 

• Graphic Designer

• Animator

• Multimedia Artist

• Web Designer

• Web Developer

• Creative Director

• Art Director

• Software Quality Assurance Tester

• Software Applications Developer

• Public Relations Specialist

• Marketing Specialist

• Marketing Manager

 

Formal education can assist you in achieving and developing the necessary expertise and skills required to explore a wide range of professional career options in graphic design. 

 

Whether you start your career in graphic design or pursue a master's degree, the expertise you have gained will help you advance.

 

 

10. How Much Is A Graphic Designer Paid in Australia?

 

According to Pay Scale, a Graphic Designer's salary ranges between A$46k and A$76k per year. Their average salary in Australia is AU$ 58,106 in 2023.

 

It depends on various factors such as:

 

• Qualifications and Specialisation

• Experience 

• The seniority of the role

• Work location

• The industry that they work in

• Type of Employment (Full-time in a company/Independent contractor)

• Employer

 

In addition to annual income, graphic designers receive good benefits packages, including paid time off, dental, vision, and health insurance.

 

 

Salary Based on Experience

 

• Entry-level (<1-year experience): AU$49,476 per year

• Early career (1-4 years of experience): AU$54,466 per year 

• Mid-career (5-9 years of experience): AU$63,139 per year 

• Experienced (10-19 years of experience): AU$69,490 per year 

• In their late career (20 years and above): AU$71,257 per year

 

 

Highest Paying Cities In Australia

 

• Canberra: AU$129,063 per year

• Joondalup: AU$124,061 per year

• Sydney: AU$112,708 per year

• Perth: AU$110,824 per year

• Melbourne: AU$106,730 per year

• Gold Coast: AU$105,731 per year

• Brisbane: AU$104,064 per year

• Surry Hills: AU$97,102 per year

• Rosebery: AU$91,188 per year

 

 

11. What Are The Available Career Options For Graphic Designers in Australia?

 

Graphic Design skills are in demand in various industries that require visual design skills, such as product or software development.

 

Those interested in web development may follow the web development career branch, such as a Web Designer or UX/UI Designer. If they have programming skills, a job as a Front-End Developer could be ideal.

 

So, based on their specialisation, they can pursue the following career paths (along with national average salaries):

 

• UI Developer: AU$88,437 per year 

• Art director: AU$82,890 per year

• Front-End Developer: AU$81,692 per year

• Product Designer: AU$78,728 per year

• User Experience (UX) Designer: AU$76,047 per year

• Game Designer: AU$68,188 per year

• Visual Designer: AU$67,380 per year

• Digital Designer: AU$64,637 per year

• Web Designer: AU$64,166 per year

• Motion Graphic Designer: AU$62,911 per year

• Multimedia Designer: AU$61,047 per year

• Interactive Designer: AU$60,984 per year

• Photo Editor: AU$60,678 per year 

• Production Artist: AU$58,900 per year 

• Graphic Designer: AU$58,106 per year

• Animator: AU$55,622 per year

• Virtual Reality Designer: AU$51,000 per year

• Freelance Designer: AU$40.30 per hour

• Illustrator: AU$29.93 per hour

 

 

12. How Do I Get a Job as A Graphic Designer With No Experience?

 

Landing your first graphic design job without real-life experience can be difficult. However, we have some helpful tips to ease your entry into this role.

 

 

Gain Experience

 

The only way to gain experience is to do graphic design. Start acquiring leverage in the field by doing free work, getting a job where you work closely with actual graphic designers, or actively participating in graphic design communities.

 

You can also contact your family, friends, and other communities, such as churches, local volunteer organisations, and social clubs, to find free opportunities to offer your graphic design services.

 

 

Build Design Portfolio

 

As you gain leverage, focus on building your design portfolio and acquaint yourself with the design industry's operation.

 

Practice projects also count. You may consider platforms like 99designs, Fiverr, etc., to work on small "real" and practice projects for clients. It could be volunteering work like designing your friend's wedding invites or creating graphics for your community.

 

You can become your client if you can't find a client or a job to gain experience. Start making website designs, social media content, logo designs, business cards, marketing graphics, etc., demonstrating your graphic design skills.

 

Ensure your portfolio showcases your technical design skills, creativity, and ability to convey ideas and concepts. If it has all these, it will make your clients confident about working with you and increase your hiring chances.

 

 

Expand Your Network

 

Join online Graphic Design Communities on DeviantArt, Reddit, Facebook, and Instagram to connect and collaborate with like-minded people and make professional connections.

 

 

Find Apprenticeship Opportunities

 

Apprenticeships are one of the best ways to learn all the technical skills you need to succeed as a graphic designer under the guidance of an experienced designer.

 

Job boards, online communities like LinkedIn, and your professional network can help you find opportunities for internships or apprenticeships.

 

 

Specialise in a Specific Field Within Graphic Designing

 

Instead of graphic designing, focus on a niche like logo or website design and gain expertise.

 

Niching makes it easier to connect with specific clients as it is an easy way to show prospective clients what you are good at. It demonstrates your understanding and expertise in a particular type of project/industry.

 

 

Land a Professional Internship

 

Internships are ideal for beginners to gain professional leverage. They teach holistic skills like how to work effectively in an office environment and how to solve challenges. At the same time, you gain professional experience and build portfolios.

 

However, gaining an internship is competitive as many candidates compete for limited openings. Most schools provide an internship program for students.

 

However, if you have graduated from school, you would require hard work to find internship opportunities. Below are places that can help you find one:

 

• LinkedIn

• Glassdoor

• Indeed

 

 

13. Are Graphic Designers in Demand In Australia?

 

As technology drives almost every aspect of our lives, more graphic designers are needed to expand the potential of the Internet of things, such as smart cities, smart homes, and intelligent transportation.

 

With several employment options available across different industries, you have many opportunities to enter a field that interests you. Business, marketing, sports, entertainment, and politics are major industries that need graphic designers.

 

As design skills are transferable, you can switch and apply design thinking between different industries throughout your career. This way, you will enjoy more variety in your professional life.

 

In Australia, Graphic designing is growing faster than other careers in the art and design field. Some of the most in-demand graphic design jobs are Product Designer, UX Designer, Illustrator, Graphic Designer, and Motion Designer.

 

 

14. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

 

What Qualifications Do You Need To Be A Graphic Designer in Australia?

 

You usually need a qualification in graphic design to work as a Graphic Designer in Australia. Here are the steps to qualify for this role:

 

• Complete a formal qualification in graphic design like a Diploma of Graphic Design or a Bachelor of Design.

• Consider a specialisation to pursue senior roles such as a creative lead, brand manager, user experience designer, or art director.

 

 

How Long Does It Take To Become A graphic Designer in Australia?

 

You can become a graphic designer by completing a diploma or bachelor's degree in graphic design:

 

RMIT University offers 1-year full-time Diploma in Graphic Design. However, you need three years of full-time study to complete a bachelor's degree in design in Australia.

 

 

What ATAR Do You Need to Study Graphic Design in Australia?

 

You would require an ATAR score ranging between 60 to 85 to gain admission to undergraduate graphic designing courses in Australia.

 

• Bachelor of Design - UNSW (On-Campus) - Lowest ATAR (2022): 65.8, Lowest Selection Rank (2022): 80

• Bachelor of Design - The University of Melbourne (On-Campus) - Guaranteed ATAR 2023: 88.00

• Bachelor of Design - Deakin University (On-Campus and Online) - ATAR: Burwood (60.2), Waurn Ponds (60.1)

• Bachelor of Design – QUT - ATAR based on Majors- Visual (ATAR: 77), Industrial Design (ATAR: 70), Interaction Design (ATAR: 70), Visual Communication (ATAR: 70)

 

 

What Should a Beginner Graphic Designer Do?

 

Entry-level graphic designers work in various industries and in different capacities. They may work as in-house staff in a company preparing promotional materials or as a designer at a design agency with several clients and projects.

 

Graphic designers use illustrations, fonts, colour, and layout to present a product or visually convey a message. They work with design software to design logos, print materials, websites, product packaging, etc.

 

 

What Software Do Graphic Designers Use?

 

Graphic designers use software to create visually compelling graphic designs for spaces that combine text and art, such as advertisements, billboards, signs, brochures, magazines, album cover art, and book covers.

 

Aspiring graphic designers commonly use the following tools and software:

 

• A raster graphics editor like Adobe Photoshop (minimum requirement to start in graphic designing)

• A vector graphics editor like an Adobe Illustrator 

• Font-creation software such as Fontographer and TypeTool 

• Font-management software such as Suitcase and FontExplorer.

• Adobe Painter or CorelDraw for two-dimensional artwork 

• Z-Brush, Maya, or Blender for three-dimensional designs.

• Three-dimensional modelling, animation, and rendering software

 

 

In Which Areas Do Graphic Designers Specialise?

 

Popular specialisations for graphic designers include:

 

• Print Media

• Web design 

• Poster design

• Corporate identity such as logo, brochures, etc. 

• Mobile application and UI (User Interface) design

• Typography and Calligraphy

• Iconography (icon designs for apps, websites, and products) and more. 

 

 

Where Do Graphic Designers Work?

 

Graphic designers work in various commercial print and digital media organisations, such as digital agencies, design studios, art departments in marketing firms, arts organisations, software firms, corporate companies, NGOs, and the advertising industry. 

 

They work alongside other creative professionals for their employer's clients in areas such as:

 

• Branding and corporate identity

• Packaging

• Art direction

• Instructional design

• Signage 

• digital and publishing 

• Advertising and promotion

• Web design

• iInteractive and immersive virtual experiences  

 

With experience and skills, graphic designers can work from home as independent contractors/freelancers on a per-project basis and become entrepreneurial self-starters.

 

 

Do Graphic Designers Get Paid Well?

 

Yes. Pursuing Graphic design in Australia provides several opportunities for reasonable compensation and professional growth. Entry-level graphic designers can expect to earn AU$ 49,476 per year. While the highest-paying jobs mostly go to those with extensive experience and specialised knowledge in specific industry areas.

 

With an experience of 5 to 9 years, graphic designers can expect to earn AU$63,139 annually on average. Highly experienced graphic designers with 10 to 19 years of experience can earn around AU$69,490 annually on average.

 

Those working in specific locations, such as Canberra and Joondalup, report annual earnings as high as AU$129,063 and AU$124,061 per year.

 

 

What Is The Work Environment of a Graphic Designer?

 

Graphic Designers primarily work in offices in front of a computer; however, some work mainly by hand at a drafting table. Being a deadline-driven job, graphic designers often work long hours.

 

When employed in a firm, they work in a design and creative team, including photographers, videographers, and content writers at various levels of an organisation.

 

Based on the company and its role, they may collaborate with experts in user experience (UX) design, web design, sales, marketing, public relations, and information technology.

 

As hybrid and remote work environments are becoming common, many graphic designers enjoy the flexibility of working from home. Such arrangements enable them to choose a work style and schedule that lead to a healthier work-life balance.

 

Graphic designers work with digital collaboration tools to complete, share and deliver most of their work online.

 

 

Do You Need To Be Good at Art To Be a Graphic Designer?

 

Yes. Graphic designing requires creative abilities and talents with different artistic media. They also need a creative vision and the skill to communicate brand messaging appealingly.

 

 

How Do I Know If Graphic Design is for Me?

 

Graphic design is an ideal career for creative thinkers who enjoy art, communication, and technology.

 

It is also an excellent choice for those who seek a career that enables them to work remotely with maximum flexibility (schedule, location, and pay rates).

 

The role offers you varied and exciting work across every industry. So, you can rest assured to find several employment opportunities to use your creative talents while drawing competitive salaries.

 

A career in Graphic design is very fulfilling as it allows you to make a real-world impact on your work.

 

Overall, Graphic design can be rewarding for people with technical expertise and creative talents. However, its suitability depends on your preferences, skills, and professional goals.

 

 

What Are Three Things A Graphic Designer Does?

 

The three primary work responsibilities of a graphic designer are:

 

• Discuss with clients and stakeholders to determine the objectives and restraints of the design brief. 

• Negotiate design solutions with clients, sales and production staff, and management.

• Use digital art and design tools and traditional art supplies to create attractive presentations, including text design, digital image creation, photo editing, logo development, animation, and page design.

 

Besides these, designers also choose, specify, or recommend aesthetic and functional media and materials for publication, display, and delivery.

 

 

Can I Become A Graphic Designer In 6 Months?

 

You can self-learn and become a Graphic Designer in 6 months; however, most employers seek candidates with a formal qualification in graphic design.

 

Considering the high competition within the design industry, you need at least a 1-year full-time diploma in graphic design or a 3-year full-time Bachelor of Design to improve your employability and job success chances in this role.

 

 

Can You Do Graphic Design Without a Degree?

 

Graphic designing is a technical role that requires you to be well-versed in using multiple design tools and software.

 

To get started in this field, you need a strong design background and knowledge of wireframing and responsive and interaction design. That's why completing a formal graphic design qualification is helpful before entering the profession.

 

Most employers seek candidates with a graphic design degree and solid portfolio for this role. Around 68 per cent of graphic designers hold a bachelor's degree. In comparison, 23 per cent hold a diploma or an associate qualification in graphic design.

 

Completing globally-recognised graphic designer certification programs can help strengthen your resume, display your competency to potential employers, and stand out.

 

Here are popular beginner-level online graphic design certifications to help you stand out in competitive jobs.

 

• Adobe Certified Associate

• Graphic Design Specialisation – CalArts, Coursera

• UI/UX Design Specialisation- CalArts, Coursera 

• Google UX Design Professional Certification- Coursera 

• Graphic Design Elements for Non-Designers Specialization – University of Colorado Boulder 

• Graphic Design Certificate - Pratt Institute

 

 

Is It Difficult To Get a Job in Graphic Design?

 

Graphic design is vital in marketing, media companies, publishers, and manufacturing firms that need designers to prepare engaging printed materials, original logos, and functional web pages.

 

However, as graphic design is very common, you need technical experience to start in this profession in Australia.

 

Experienced creatives, with a proven track record of dedication and a diverse professional portfolio, can find ample work opportunities nationwide.

 

Once you get to this stage, finding graphic design jobs within companies or remote positions will become relatively easier.

 

 

Is Graphic Design in Demand in Australia?

 

Graphic design is one of the most sought-after fields for its ability to transform and provide lasting solutions that enhance our lives. It has applications in creating and enhancing cities, buildings, transport systems, bridges, websites, furniture, landscapes, and the environment.

 

With job markets evolving continually in Australia, the ability to apply design thinking is recognised as a desirable skill. Graphic designers use creative approaches to defining and solving problems that lead to high-quality decisions.

 

They are innovators who improve how we live and interact with our surroundings. That's why they are in much demand among industries and businesses to overcome old-fashioned or rigid methods.

 

Graphic design could be for you if you are imaginative, enjoy learning new things, and want to work to enhance the way we live and the places we live in.

 

 

Is it Stressful To Be a Graphic Designer?

 

Like other jobs, Graphic designing too involves a certain level of stress depending on:

 

• What type of job you have, 

• What kind of people do you work with 

• Who you are doing it for.

 

Based on the above, some of the everyday stressors in this job could be:

 

 

Keeping Up With Tight Schedules

 

 

Freelance and in-house graphic designers must handle constant deadlines, rush jobs, client expectations, and varying creative energy levels.

 

 

Producing Creative Work on Demand

 

Constantly pumping out designs daily with high expectations and turnaround times makes the job stressful. It is challenging for graphic designers to produce high-quality creative work while staying fresh and avoiding burnout.

 

 

Conflicting Creative Visions

 

Another challenge graphic designers face is navigating through colleagues' and clients' differing creative visions and opinions. Budget limitations or restricted project scope can also lead to disagreement about the best direction for the result.

 

 

Can I Learn Graphic Design Myself?

 

If you have a passion for design, connect with people, and are ready to work hard, you can become a self-taught graphic designer.

 

Follow this simple guide to learn how to cultivate the basics and gain the necessary experience to land your first graphic designer role:

 

 

Step 1: Learn The Fundamentals

 

As a graphic designer, you need a thorough knowledge of design principles and effective use of design elements such as colour, contrast, balance, hierarchy, and proportion.

 

You can find several online graphic designing courses and certification programs to develop your basics before you make a head start in this profession.

 

Beginner-level Graphic Designing Certifications (Online):

 

• Graphic Design Specialisation – Coursera

• UI/UX Design Specialisation- Coursera 

• Google UX Design Professional Certification- Coursera 

• Graphic Design Elements for Non-Designers Specialization – University of Colorado Boulder 

 

 

Step 2: Choose A Niche 

 

While you build a knowledge base in graphic design, it is beneficial to identify a specific graphic design niche you are interested in. These include:

 

• Brand identity design

• Social media marketing

• Website design

• Logo design, etc.

 

Once you have picked a niche, find resources specific to the type of design work to gain specialised knowledge.

 

 

Step 3: Learn To Work With Graphic Designing Tools

 

Once you have a basic theoretical knowledge, the next step is to learn to work with graphic design software and tools to practice creating designs in your niche.

 

Using free graphic design software before investing in expensive and robust tools is beneficial as a starter.

 

Here we have listed some of the best picks in online graphic design tools:

 

• Vecteezy

• CorelDraw (Free Trial)

• Inkscape

 

 

Once you have good practice with free tools, take your technical skills to the next level by investing in professional design tools like:

 

• Adobe Illustrator

• Adobe Photoshop

• Bonsai

 

These tools are incredibly powerful and used by industry experts. You can use them to create impactful visual designs and an impressive portfolio. With Bonsai, you can even create proposals and contracts for clients, manage projects, send invoices, and organise your taxes.

 

To help you learn and master these design tools, plenty of free YouTube videos and quality resources are available online.

 

 

Step 3: Build a Design Portfolio

 

Clients and employers will always ask you for work samples before hiring your services. You need a persuasive body of work in the niche area to display your technical skills and design competencies.

 

From creating your self-initiated projects to volunteering and offering your design services to close ones, there are ample ways to put your graphic design skills into practice and hone them.

 

Work on gathering a body of work that reflects the graphic design jobs you want to take on.

 

 

Step 4: Publicise Your Work

 

Once you have built up a solid design portfolio, you need to promote it within your network and in design communities to reach a maximum number of people.

 

Dribbble Pro offers a simple and effective portfolio-building tool that shares your work with a million people, including hiring managers and design recruiters who scout the platform monthly.

 

Building a design portfolio isn't a one-time job. You must keep improving it regularly with the latest and best work examples. So, the more you practice and hone your skills, the better your portfolio becomes.

 

Besides showcasing your skills, Dribbble is also an excellent place for networking, building industry connections, and gaining constructive feedback on your design work.

 

 

Step 5: Get Real-World Work Experience

 

Having developed technical skills and knowledge, you can get real-world experience. Based on your skill level, look for entry-level graphic design jobs and internships online and offline.

 

Before applying for jobs, it is a good idea to practice the essential soft skills such as client communication, interview best practices, effective selling of your designs, etc., to succeed in landing a graphic design role.

 

 

Is A Career in Graphic Design Worth It?

 

Graphic design is a vital marketing tool that can add value to several workplaces. As more companies continue to improve their digital presence, the need for capable Graphic Designers is expected to grow in the coming years. 

 

A career in graphic design can be fulfilling if you are creative and enthusiastic about art and working with communication and technology.

 

Here are some of the best reasons to pursue this profession:

 

• Different types of job opportunities

• Stable work hours

• Potential to work remotely and as an independent contractor

• Sense of accomplishment

• Numerous career paths and advancement opportunities

• Good salary and benefits

 

 

Useful Links to Explore:

• English Language Requirements for Australia
• Cultural differences you may experience in Australia
• How to find Part-Time work as a Student in Australia
• Seven Tips for Students on a Budget in Australia
• How to get a Scholarship to Study in Australia
• Driving in Australia as an International Student
• How to change your Course or Institute in Australia
• The Benefits of a Professional Year Program (PYP)
• A Complete Guide to Study in Australia
• Types of Education in Australia
• What to Study in Australia?