Build your career as an Interior Designer

design & technology

Interior Designer

Interior design in Australia offers a rewarding career path for those with a passion for creativity and aesthetics. As an interior designer, you'll have the opportunity to conceptualise and design unique spaces, select materials and finishes, and oversee project implementation. With a growing construction and renovation industry, there are ample opportunities for interior designers to work on a diverse range of projects, from residential homes to commercial spaces. You'll have the flexibility to specialise in areas like residential or commercial design, combined with competitive salaries, makes interior design a compelling career choice.

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EMPLOYED 15,100
PART-TIME SHARE 29%
AVERAGE FULL-TIME HOURS 43
MEDIAN WEEKLY EARNINGS $2,612

The growth of the interior design industry in Australia is driven by several key factors. Urbanisation and population growth, coupled with a focus on quality of life, are creating a strong demand for new housing, commercial spaces, and renovations. Australia's relatively stable economy provides a conducive environment for the industry to thrive, while technological advancements have enhanced design processes and client engagement.

Gender Split

Employment by State

Highest Level of education (%)

Age Brackets

What can you expect from working as an Interior Designer?

Interior designers are responsible for creating functional and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces. They conceptualise and design unique spaces, optimise space utilisation through planning, select materials and finishes that align with the design concept and budget, and oversee the implementation of design plans. Interior Designers will also consult with clients to understand their needs and preferences, and ensure that their designs adhere to building codes, regulations, and sustainability standards.

Duties you can expect:

  1. Client and Stakeholder Communication: Effectively gathering and understanding design objectives, constraints, and preferences through clear and open communication.
  2. Design Research: Conducting thorough research on building codes, regulations, accessibility standards, and industry trends to inform design decisions.
  3. Spatial Planning: Creating functional and efficient layouts that optimize space utilization and flow.
  4. Design Concept Development: Generating innovative and aesthetically pleasing design concepts that align with client goals and project requirements.
  5. Visualization and Presentation: Using sketches, diagrams, illustrations, and 3D renderings to effectively communicate design ideas to clients and stakeholders.
  6. Material Selection and Specification: Identifying and specifying appropriate materials, finishes, furniture, and lighting that meet functional, aesthetic, and budgetary requirements.
  7. Construction Documentation: Preparing detailed drawings, specifications, and schedules to guide the construction process.
  8. Project Management: Overseeing the implementation of design plans, coordinating with contractors, and ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
  9. Sustainability and Green Design: Incorporating sustainable practices and materials into design projects to minimize environmental impact.
  10. Adaptability and Problem-Solving: Effectively addressing challenges and finding innovative solutions throughout the design and construction process..

How to become an Interior Designer

A successful career in interior design in Australia often involves a combination of academic qualifications and practical experience. VET programs provide essential skills and hands-on experience, which can also pave the way for university degrees. By combining academic knowledge with practical skills gained through VET, aspiring interior designers can build a strong foundation for a successful and rewarding career in the Australian interior design industry.

MSF50222

Diploma of Interior Design

Get ready to immerse yourself in the colorful world of Interior Design. Get equipped with the skills and knowledge you need to make your mark. Graduate with your own portfolio of work that will showcase your unique style.
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*The information on this page is sourced from the Jobs and Skills Australia website, based on their occupational data collected in May 2024. Where job titles may not be exact matches, related job areas have been used. This data is intended as a guide only.

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