Journalist

   Information, Media and Telecommunications

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Leo Puglisi - News Anchor for 6 News - CAMEO

Related Jobs or Working with these Jobs

 

 

Service or PersuadingClerical or OrganisingArtistic or CreativeAnalytic or Scientific
Skill Level 4Skill Level 5

Digital media has completely transformed the news—and the journalism skills needed to produce and deliver it.

Twenty years ago, Australians turned to traditional media for the news. TV, radio and newspapers were the go-to sources.

Now, digital media dominates. Over half of Australian adults prefer to get their news from a digital platform, such as podcasts or social media.

What does the shift to digital media mean for aspiring and working journalists? They need to master a variety of journalism skills. While the foundations of journalism endure, the field requires new expertise to break in and stay relevant.

Journalists research, write and edit news reports, commentaries and features for newspapers, magazines, electronic media and radio or television stations. Journalists usually start as cadets and report routine events. In newspapers and on radio and Future Growth Static television, most reporters are expected to be 'generalists' who are able to cover almost any topic of interest.

With experience and sometimes further training, journalists may perform a variety of tasks according to their area of specialisation. Journalists may also work as editors.

ANZSCO ID: 2124

Alternative names: Reporter or Correspondent

Specialisations:  

  • Columnist - writes a regular segment within their particular interest category (e.g. gardening, fashion, politics).

  • Feature Writer - writes detailed stories or presents commentaries on specific news topics. Headline News

  • Leader Writer - discusses news topics in the editorial columns of newspapers or magazines.

  • News Reporter  (below)- reports on day-to-day news events (e.g. crime, education, health, sport).

  • Roundsperson - reports and discusses a specialised area (e.g. politics, economics, education).

  • Sports Commentator (below)

 

Knowledge, skills and attributes

  • able to write clear, concise, objective and accurate material quickly

  • good general knowledge

  • interested in current events

  • aptitude to learn keyboard and shorthand skills

  • able to speak clearly with confidence when working on radio and television

  • excellent communication and people skills

  • good listening and questioning skills Note-taking

  • empathy and tact

  • good writing and research skills

  • confidence and a clear speaking voice

  • persistence and motivation

Duties and Tasks

Journalists may perform the following tasks: Newspapers

  • gather news and information by interviewing people and attending events

  • undertake research to provide background information for articles using online and in-house sources

  • assess the suitability of reports and articles for publication or broadcasting, within an established style and format, and edit as necessary

  • research stories, using online and in-house sources

  • build networks of contacts in your focus areas

  • generate ideas for stories, based on leads or your own research

  • gather news and information by interviewing people or attending briefings or press conferences

  • write articles for hardcopy or online publications, or social media content

  • follow established style and format guidelines, and edit as necessary

  • prepare interview questions and conduct live and pre-recorded interviews

  • operate digital recording and editing equipment

  • present news on air (television and radio).

  • write articles that comment on or interpret news events, some of which may put forward a point of view on behalf of the publication

In many radio or TV jobs you would be part of a production team which could include other journalists, researchers, editors, broadcast assistants and producers.

Journalist interviewing
(Source: YourCareer)

Working conditions

All journalists are required to understand the laws of defamation, contempt and copyright. They may have to work long and irregular hours and are often under pressure to meet deadlines.

Journalists may work indoors and carry out interviews by telephone or may have to work outdoors in all kinds of weather. Travel is sometimes required.

You would work in a newsroom, using a telephone and computer. You might also spend some of your time out-and-about doing interviews and covering stories. Outside broadcasts take place in all weather conditions. The work could involve local, national or international travel, often at short notice.


Tools and technologies

Journalists use computers for research and writing, but may also use notepads and pens, dictaophones or portable sound and video recording devices, and may even be involved in the use of photographic and digital video equipment.

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a journalist, you usually need to study a degree with a major in journalism or a related field, followed by a one-year graduate cadetship involving on the job training.

Alternatively, you can become a journalist by completing a 3-year cadetship, during which you receive instruction and gain experience in practical journalism under the supervision of senior journalists.

Cadetships are offered by national, regional and local media organisations. Entry requirements vary, but you will need to demonstrate a passion for journalism and a flair for writing. Competition is very strong. Video

Becoming a Journalist
(Source: ABC Education)

Employment Opportunities

Most journalists work for country, metropolitan and suburban newspapers, magazines, radio and television stations. They may also work for press agencies. Due to changes in the industry, it is common for journalists to work on a freelance basis. Others move into publicity roles in government departments, work as press secretaries for government ministers or work in related fields such as advertising, marketing and public relations.

Technological changes have increased the speed of information exchange, leading to a more interpretative role for journalists. This has increased the demand for journalists with expertise in specialist fields such as economics and political science.

Factors that influence employment range from the number, size and economic viability of media organisations to the use of modern technology and the degree of networking and resource sharing between organisations.

 

News Anchor
   Information, Media and Telecommunications

Clerical or OrganisingAnalytic or ScientificSkill Level 4Skill Level 5

News anchors are the face of local, national, and international news broadcasts. They read the news from teleprompters, conduct interviews with guests, introduce reporters and different news segments, and conduct broadcasts both in the news station and in the field.

News anchors deliver news stories, conduct interviews, and provide analysis on current events. They must have strong communication skills and a presence on camera. Other duties include researching current events, presenting news in an engaging manner, and ensuring breaking news is delivered.

A news anchor is a journalist or broadcaster who serves as the primary presenter of news programs on television or radio. They are the face of the news organization and are responsible for delivering the day's news stories to the audience in a clear, concise, and engaging manner. News anchors are typically seated at a news desk or standing in a studio, providing a professional and authoritative presence during news broadcasts.

Mark Ferguson
Mark Ferguson - 7 News NSW
(Source: 7 News)

ANZSCO ID: 212416
  
Alternative names: Broadcaster; Journalist; Primary Presenter; Frontperson; Lead Anchor; Primary Anchor,
   

Specialisations:

Types of News Anchors
There are various types of news anchors, each with their own specific roles and responsibilities within the field of journalism.

  • Main News Anchor: The main news anchor, also known as the lead anchor or primary anchor, is the face of the news program. They are responsible for delivering the main news stories and headlines of the day. They often lead the broadcast, introduce segments, and provide continuity throughout the program.

  • Co-Anchor: A co-anchor works alongside the main news anchor, sharing the responsibility of presenting the news. They may alternate delivering stories, conduct interviews, or provide analysis. Co-anchors often engage in discussions with each other and contribute their perspectives on the news.

  • Breaking News Anchor: When significant, time-sensitive events occur, breaking news anchors take over the broadcast to provide immediate coverage. They deliver breaking news updates, offer real-time information, and report live from the scene. Breaking news anchors need to be quick-thinking, adaptable, and able to handle high-pressure situations.

  • Sports Anchor: Sports anchors specialize in delivering news and updates related to sports events, teams, and athletes. They provide scores, highlights, analysis, and commentary on sporting events. Sports anchors often have a deep knowledge of various sports and engage with viewers who have an interest in athletics.

  • Weather Anchor: Weather anchors, also known as meteorologists, are responsible for delivering weather forecasts, climate updates, and weather-related information. They analyze weather patterns, use meteorological tools, and present the forecast using graphics and visuals. Weather anchors play a crucial role in informing viewers about current and upcoming weather conditions.

  • Investigative Anchor: Investigative anchors focus on in-depth reporting and investigative journalism. They conduct research, uncover newsworthy stories, interview sources, and present investigative reports. They may specialize in exposing corruption, wrongdoing, or uncovering important facts that require extensive research and analysis.

  • Morning Show Anchor: Morning show anchors typically host news programs that air during the early morning hours. They deliver news updates, conduct interviews, and provide a mix of news, entertainment, and lifestyle segments. Morning show anchors often have a conversational and engaging style to help viewers start their day.

Sarah Abo
Sarah Abo - Morning Show Co-Anchor - Channel 9
(Source: Channel 9)


Knowledge, skills and attributes

The role of a news anchor goes beyond simply reading news scripts. They are often involved in researching and gathering news stories, interviewing guests, and conducting live reports from the field. News anchors work closely with producers, writers, and technical teams to ensure that news segments are well-coordinated and presented effectively.

They must have excellent communication skills, a strong command of the language, and the ability to convey information with clarity and impartiality. News anchors also need to stay updated on current events, national and international news, and be able to provide context and analysis to help viewers understand complex issues.

News anchors serve as a human connection between the news organization and the audience. Their presence on screen adds a personal touch, making the news more relatable and accessible. They can convey empathy, emotion, and a sense of shared experience, fostering a connection with viewers.

Jeremy Fernandez
Jeremy Fernandez - ABC's News Anchor
(Source: ABC)


Duties and Tasks

1. Delivering News:

Presenting news stories to the audience in a clear and concise manner.
Ensuring accuracy and completeness of information.
Delivering breaking news updates as they occur.

2. Interviewing Guests:

Conducting interviews with newsmakers, experts, and individuals involved in current events.
Asking insightful questions and engaging in meaningful conversations.

3. Providing Analysis:

Offering commentary and analysis on news events.
Helping viewers understand the context and implications of the news.

4. Researching and Preparation:

Staying informed about current events and developments.
Conducting research on news stories to ensure accuracy and context.
Collaborating with reporters and other news staff.

5. Scripting and Presentation:

Writing, preparing, and delivering scripts for news broadcasts.
Ensuring a smooth and engaging on-air presentation.
Maintaining a professional and credible demeanour.

6. Other Responsibilities:

Collaborating with other anchors and team members.
Working with field reporters to present their stories.
Ensuring the timely broadcast of necessary news stories.
Potentially assisting with other duties as needed

   
Working conditions

The workplace of a news anchor can vary depending on the type of news organization and program format. In general, news anchors work in a studio setting designed specifically for news broadcasts. The studio typically includes a news desk, where the anchor delivers the news, along with various technical equipment, cameras, and lighting setups. The studio is often equipped with teleprompters that display the news script for the anchor to read seamlessly.

News anchors may also have access to a control room adjacent to the studio. The control room is where the technical aspects of the broadcast are managed, such as camera angles, graphics, audio, and video playback. The anchor may communicate with the control room staff through an earpiece to receive cues and instructions during the live broadcast.

 

Working Conditions
Jeremy Fernandez in ABC News Studio
(Source: ABC)


Additionally, news anchors may have their own personal workspace within the news organization's facilities. This workspace often includes a computer, where they can research, prepare scripts, review news stories, and communicate with producers or writers. They may also have access to a wardrobe area or dressing room for outfit changes and grooming.

News anchors often work alongside a production team, including producers, writers, editors, and technical staff. They collaborate closely with these professionals to plan and coordinate the news program, discuss story angles, and ensure a smooth and professional broadcast.

While the primary workplace for news anchors is the studio, they may also have opportunities to report from the field, especially in the case of breaking news or live event coverage. In such situations, they may be assigned to locations outside the studio, such as newsrooms, press conferences, or remote broadcast locations.


Tools and technologies

The studio typically includes a news desk, where the anchor delivers the news, along with various technical equipment, cameras, and lighting setups. The studio is often equipped with teleprompters that display the news script for the anchor to read seamlessly.

The personal workspace often includes a computer, where they can research, prepare scripts, review news stories, and communicate with producers or writers. They may also have access to a wardrobe area or dressing room for outfit changes and grooming.

 


Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a Journalist in Australia the most common pathway is to complete a degree in journalism or in a related field with a major in journalism. This is often followed by a cadetship.

Undertake a degree in journalism. This could be a Bachelor of Journalism or a Bachelor of Communication (Journalism). These are typically three-year full time courses, for people over 17 years of age or who have completed year 12 with an appropriate Universities Admission Index and relevant prerequisites.

Employment Opportunities

In May 2025 there were significant opportunities for people with degrees to be part of the TV Journalist Team. TV News Anchors however are limited.

 

Life on the Job


News Anchor - CAMEO

Leonardo Puglise, News Anchor for News 6

This article is taken directly from ABC News - 8 February 2025

6 News anchor Leo Puglisi is not your average 17-year-old

Leo Puglisi
(Source: ABC News February 2025)


During the long summer holidays between primary school and high school, that imperceptible threshold where childhood is left behind, Leo Puglisi rebranded his news channel.

Leo had started reporting on local news and posting his video reports to YouTube in 2019, when he was 11. On the first day of 2020, Leo's channel HMV — which stood for Hawthorn, Melbourne Victoria, "like the old TV call signs" he says — became 6 News.

That summer, Leo took his 6 News branded microphone, and a shirt and tie, with him on holiday. It turned out to be "a poorly planned family road trip… through multiple bushfire zones," he says. But it was great for gathering news. He filmed plumes of smoke from the window of the family car, interviewed fire weary locals, and recruited his younger brother do a live cross from outside parliament house.

By the time the first COVID lockdown occurred in March 2020, Leo was producing two bulletins about local and international news per week on YouTube.

Now aged 17, and beginning year 12, Leo's 6 News has a team of 10 teenage reporters. He has amassed more than 30,000 followers on YouTube and nearly 60,000 followers on X (formerly Twitter). With his customary suit and neatly combed hair, Leo has become an accepted part of Australia's media landscape. He's reportedly been offered a column with NewsCorp (something he neither denies or confirms), he's been included among surveys of journalists on media trends, and he's interviewed a prime minister. He was also a 2025 Young Victorian of the Year nominee.

With Australians under the age of 16 set to be locked out of social media platforms later this year, Leo has become an unofficial defender of young people's agency and creativity online. "I think it's really important for young people to be able to explore their passions," he says.

Without access to social media platforms, none of Leo's achievements may have happened. But running a news channel from his bedroom isn't easy. Leo doesn't sleep much, he's been the subject of conspiracy theories, and balancing his hunger for news with high school can be a challenge.
'Who the hell is this Leonardo Puglisi'


Leo Puglisi


For as long as Leo can remember, news has been his passion. Leo first rose to national attention when he was 12. Melbourne's The Age newspaper wrote about the "boy journalist" who scooped a radio station to a story about the demolition of a beloved school belltower. Not long after, Leo broke what he says is still the exclusive news story he's most proud of. "We reported that stage four [COVID] lockdown was set to be declared in Melbourne, copped plenty of comments doubting us, and then were proven correct in about 48 hours," he says.

Bemused 3AW radio presenters discussed his scoop on air a few days later. "[The lockdown news] was broken on that website 6 News and I assured people it would be absolute bulltish" an incredulous 3AW radio host said. "Blow me down it turns out to have been right."

"His aim in life, and this is on his Twitter site, is to be the new Karl Stefanovic, it's good to aim high isn't it. Anyway, Leo has in recent weeks had some amazing scoops… and I thought he couldn't get this one right it's too big. But it turned out to be absolutely on the money, I'm sure there are a lot of very well-staffed, very well-equipped newsrooms thinking who the hell is this Leonardo Puglisi."


When 14-year-old Leo interviewed Prime Minister Scott Morrison in the lead-up to the 2022 election, he again made national headlines. Leo credits another 6 News reporter, then 13-year-old Roman Mackinnon, for securing the interview. "I'm still amazed we got that," he says of an interview he describes as "a bit fiery". Leo put tough and thoughtful questions to the prime minister and held his ground on the occasions Morrison attempted to dismiss them. "I don't think he was necessarily expecting all the questions and all the push back," Leo says. "But I respect him for not holding back."

Leo has always been clear that 6 News is not news for kids by kids. "The fact we are a digital only news channel, [the audience] does lean younger… I'd say under 35 maybe under 40," he says. But he believes they attract people of all ages looking for an alternative source of news.

Research conducted in 2023 by the Australian Communications and Media Authority found 46 per cent of young people aged 18-to-24 years nominate social media as their main source for news. They're also significantly more likely than older groups to turn to celebrities and social media influencers for their news content the study found. Young audiences also differ in what they expect from the news, a report commissioned by the Reuters Institute found. "Traditional news brands see news as: what you should know. Young audiences see news as: what you should know (to an extent), but also what is useful to know, what is interesting to know, and what is fun to know," the report states.

6 News may be an alternative media brand, harnessing the power of social media in the internet age, but Leo's style echoes the glory days of television news. Asked if he's an anomaly of his generation, he says that's probably true. But he says as long as young people are getting news from reputable sources, no matter the style, he's happy.


A 'digitally illiterate' family

Benedict Puglisi is still following the breadcrumbs, trying to understand where his son's passion for news has come from. As a young child, Leo's favourite songs were the fanfares used to introduce news bulletins, he says. There are home videos of Leo sitting in his highchair intently watching the television news. But the Puglisi household was never a particularly political or news obsessed one, he says.

Leo Puglisi with father Benedict

A luthier, one of the few in Australia who specialises in double basses and cellos, Benedict is a master craftsman who spends his days in a workshop surrounded by timber and instruments. Almost everything he knows about journalism he has learnt from his son. But he does spot a trace of music in Leo's speaking style. Leo, he says, learnt cello for eight years and showed talent. "He played the pieces very freely, without much time signatures, so he interpreted music really quickly," he says. "When he speaks, I notice that he knows all the pauses and the spaces… maybe some of [the music training] was channelled in the way he speaks so beautifully."

When Leo said he wanted to make a YouTube channel, Benedict admits he didn't know what that was. Despite being "digitally illiterate" as Leo describes him, Benedict often helped by driving Leo places to report, filming his crosses on an iPhone, and occasionally appearing on camera as a reporter. Benedict says 6 News has grown organically. "It's not been planned, we've just let him go and encouraged him where we could and told him to turn it off and come to the dinner table like any other little kid," he says.

However, Benedict does worry about Leo's safety online. Seeing the disparaging things people sometimes say about Leo has been particularly hard for Leo's mother. "She gets very upset by it," he says. Leo brushes it off and has proven to be a very level-headed, resilient person, Benedict says. "I totally understand that we need to keep kids away from the digital world as much as possible… but I can also see what amazing things my two boys have done with it."

Leo Puglisi getting ready

6 News has become a hub for teenagers passionate about journalism. For Benedict, the drive of these young reporters is inspirational. "His journalist friends around Australia, and some overseas… talk late into the night about different events and who's going to cover what and which stories go where … and what angles they're going to take and who they can interview and it's wonderful to watch."

Both father and son laugh off the conspiracy theories which have swirled around Leo online. "A lot of people have made comments and assumed that Leonardo was a puppet of myself, from the Liberal Party, the Communist Party, or the far-right or the far-left and they've made all these assumptions, but none of that's true at all. Leonardo's completely independent of his parents, as much as he is of any particular party, he's a very driven independent guy."

Behind the scenes, his son is a hard worker, Benedict says. "He works at it, and I don't know if people really understand that as much."

Not a gimmick

Being a team of teenage journalists who run their own streamed news service on a shoe-string budget from their homes has undoubtedly been a point of difference. But Leo says people have moved past what was "initially kind of gimmicky". "We're almost at six years now, so we've been able to establish credibility," he says.

The reporters work voluntarily, Leo says, but he's hoping to find sponsors this year. At this stage, 95 per cent of any funding 6 News receives comes through monetisation platform Patreon, he says. Some of the young reporters who have worked for 6 News are now professional journalists. While Leo says he'll continue to support other young journalists, maybe none will be as young as he was when he started. "We've never hired an 11-year-old. The only 11-year-old has been me," he says. These days the youngest reporter is 15-year-old Maggie Perry.

Writing in The Saturday Paper last year, Maggie praised the camaraderie of the team.

"It's been very hard to be a transgender 15-year-old in central Queensland. Luckily for me, my friends and fellow journalists at 6 News have been there every step of the way," she wrote. Maggie was arguing against the federal government's child social media ban, saying it would cut off vulnerable and isolated children from vital online support communities. She made the point that under such a ban, which is expected to begin later this year, Leo would never have been able to create what he has.

Leo has also questioned how effective the social media ban could be. "I've said the entire time with the social media ban, no one doubts there can be dangers on social media," he says. "That doesn't mean it can't be safely managed." Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said in 2024 that the social media ban was needed to protect young people from harm.

Leo Puglisi in green room

While Leo says he takes some precautions to protect his privacy, he seems comfortable juggling the life of a high school student and a self-made teenage news anchor. He has multiple screens set up in his bedroom where he can monitor the news. According to his father, multitasking has never been an issue for Leo. "Maybe I've missed [a class] because of an interview or something like that, but generally I think I've been able to do both to the best of my ability," he says. After completing five year 12 subjects last year, he only has two to complete this year. He has Wednesdays free, he says. "Ideally any big stories, if they can fall on a Wednesday, that would be really helpful."

This year, 6 News hopes to interview political leaders ahead of the federal election, along with looking to cover stories that receive less attention from traditional media, such as local council elections and state league sport, Leo says.

When asked about what he wants to do after year 12, he's ambitious but cagey. If he were offered a job with a major news network, would he take it? "Yeah, it's a good question. I mean, I don't know. I will just say I'm firmly committed to continuing 6 News."


Working
(Source: The Guardian)


Want to read more about Leo?
Go here:


Wikipedia
  
Leonardo Puglisi (/pʌɡˈliːsi/ pug-LEE-see; born 12 November 2007) is an Australian journalist. He is the founder of online news channel 6 News Australia. He lives in Melbourne, Victoria.

Puglisi began his media career in 2019, founding what was then initially known as HMV Local News but rebranded in 2020 as 6 News. Puglisi first came to attention in 2020 when he covered the secretive demolition of a bell tower at Hawthorn West Primary School in Hawthorn, Victoria.

He has been the subject of a number of conspiracy theories, including that he was a "front" for the Morrison government and that he was being funded by Rupert Murdoch.

Notable interviews

Scott Morrison - Prime Minister of Australia (2018–2022), prior to the 2022 federal election
Anthony Albanese - Prime Minister of Australia (2022–present) (interviewed during his tenure as Opposition Leader prior to the 2022 federal election)
Kevin Rudd - former Prime Minister of Australia (2007–2010, 2013)
Bob Katter - member of the House of Representatives for the division of Kennedy
Fatima Payman - member of the Senate for Western Australia, following her crossing the floor.


2025 VIC Young Australian of the Year Nominee

Leonardo Puglisi, at 16 years old, has made ground-breaking contributions to journalism at local, national and global levels. He founded 6 News Australia in 2019, initially covering local news in Melbourne then expanding to national and international coverage.

Leading a team of reporters from around Australia, Leonardo’s platform has become a reliable and independent source of news for thousands of viewers. His innovative approach to digital journalism, utilising YouTube, TikTok and Twitter, has garnered a substantial following worldwide.

He’s conducted notable interviews with key political figures, including Australian Prime Ministers Scott Morrison and Anthony Albanese.

Leonardo has created a platform that gives a voice to young Australians, encouraging them to engage with current events and understand their role in society. This initiative has not only educated young viewers but has also inspired many to pursue careers in journalism and media, fostering a new generation of informed, critical thinkers.



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Crikey



Leo's Father Benjamin is A Luthier

Luthier

 

News Reporter
   Information, Media and Telecommunications

Clerical or OrganisingAnalytic or ScientificSkill Level 4Skill Level 5

 

A news reporter is a specific type of journalist whose primary role is to report news stories, events, and developments to the public through written articles, broadcast segments, or multimedia content.

News reporters cover a wide range of topics, including local and national news, politics, crime, business, sports, entertainment, and human interest stories. They may work for newspapers, magazines, television stations, radio stations, online news outlets, or wire services, delivering news to the public through print, broadcast, or digital media platforms.

News reporters gather information through research, interviews, observation, and investigation, and then write or present stories that inform, educate, or engage audiences. They may cover a wide range of topics, including local news, national politics, international affairs, sports, entertainment, business, or human interest stories, depending on their beat or assignment.

While all news reporters are journalists, not all journalists may identify primarily as news reporters, as they may have other roles within the field of journalism such as editors, columnists, photojournalists, or multimedia producers.

News reporters keep the public informed about current events, developments, and issues that impact society. They adhere to journalistic principles of accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and integrity, striving to present information in a clear, balanced, and unbiased manner.

News Reporter
Jerrie Demasi reporting news
(Source: The West)

ANZSCO ID: 212499
  

Alternative names:
reporter, correspondent, announcer, columnist, broadcaster, newsperson, commentator, newscaster, newshound, pressman or presswoman, journo,
   

Specialisations

Types of News Reporters
   

There are several types of news reporters, each with their own specific roles and responsibilities. Here are some of the most common types of news reporters and what they do:

  • Business Reporters: These reporters cover financial and economic news, such as stock market trends, corporate earnings, and mergers and acquisitions. They often interview business leaders and analyse economic data to provide insight into the state of the economy.

  • Entertainment Reporters: These reporters cover the entertainment industry, including movies, television, music, and celebrity news. They attend movie premieres, interview actors and musicians, and report on industry trends and gossip.

  • Feature Writers: These writers focus on human interest stories and long-form features. They often spend weeks or months researching and interviewing their subjects to create in-depth profiles and narratives.

  • General Assignment Reporters: These reporters cover a variety of news topics, from breaking news to feature stories. They are often the first on the scene of a breaking news event and are responsible for gathering information and interviewing witnesses.

  • Investigative Reporters: These reporters dig deep into a particular topic or issue to uncover new information or expose wrongdoing. They often spend weeks or months on a single story, conducting interviews, researching documents, and analysing data.

  • Political Reporters: These reporters cover political campaigns, elections, and government affairs. They attend political events, interview politicians and experts, and analyse policies and legislation.

  • Sports Reporters: These reporters cover sporting events and news, from professional leagues to high school and college athletics. They attend games, interview athletes and coaches, and provide analysis and commentary on sports-related topics.


News Reporter
Ali Bahnasawy, SBS Senior Journalist & Presenter
(Source: SBS)

Knowledge, skills and attributes

  • Strong investigative and research abilities: are helpful for this role. As a news reporter, you may spend much of your time conducting investigations to ensure you develop an informative and factual story. This could be through personal interviews, question-and-answer press conferences, various contacts or media briefings. In addition, conducting thorough research can help a news reporter collect relevant facts promptly and present them clearly.

  • Excellent communication skills: For a news reporter, excellent communication skills are especially advantageous. They can aid in your investigations and help to ensure coherent and concise delivery of the news. While conducting personal interviews or attending conferences and briefings, it's essential a news reporter can communicate effectively with various personalities. Calm and clear communication with people in different situations and circumstances is beneficial, especially if collecting information regarding a large, significant event. Clear communication might also aid you in delivering the news to the public by ensuring you verbally present the information clearly.

  • Competent writing skills: Good writing skills are likely a great asset if you're delivering the news via articles. Writing clear and informative articles can help you create an accurate news story. Efficient writing skills may aid you during your investigative period by enabling you to establish facts and document them. The ability to document your research quickly and in a logical form might be valuable. This skill may also help you deliver articles promptly.

  • Efficient organisation and time managements skills: As a news reporter, you may be responsible for researching breaking news events and adhering to tight schedules and deadlines. Good organisation skills can be an asset in these circumstances, as they can help you act quickly and decisively. During breaking news events, good time management skills may also aid you in adhering to tight deadlines whilst still providing clear, accurate reports. Time management skills can also help you balance priorities during busy schedules.

  • Ability to self-motivate: If you can self-motivate, you might utilise this as a news reporter. Self-motivation may help you achieve your research and create news stories quickly and effectively. It might aid you in making decisions independently when you're preparing articles or broadcasts. High levels of self-motivation are likely to help you successfully reach your professional goals as a news reporter.

News Reporter interviewing
(Source: Your Career)


Duties and Tasks

The duties and responsibilities of a news reporter encompass a wide range of tasks aimed at gathering, verifying, and disseminating information to the public. Here are some key responsibilities:

  • Researching and Investigating: News reporters are responsible for researching and investigating news stories to uncover newsworthy events, developments, or issues. They may conduct interviews with sources, review documents, attend events, and gather information from a variety of sources to verify facts and gather evidence for their stories.

  • Interviewing Sources: News reporters conduct interviews with a diverse range of sources, including government officials, experts, eyewitnesses, and community members. They ask probing questions to gather information, seek multiple perspectives, and provide context for their stories. Interviewing skills are crucial for building rapport with sources and eliciting relevant information.

  • Writing and Reporting: News reporters write news articles, produce news segments, or create multimedia content to inform, educate, and engage their audience. They use clear, concise, and engaging language to convey information accurately and effectively. News reporters adhere to journalistic standards and guidelines, including accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and ethical practices, in their reporting.

  • Covering Events and Breaking News: News reporters cover a wide range of events, including press conferences, speeches, rallies, protests, and emergencies. They may be required to cover breaking news stories as they unfold, providing timely updates and live reporting to their audience. News reporters must work quickly and efficiently under tight deadlines to deliver accurate and up-to-date information.

  • Fact-Checking and Verification: News reporters are responsible for fact-checking and verifying information to ensure the accuracy and reliability of their stories. They corroborate information from multiple sources, cross-check data, and verify the credibility of sources to avoid misinformation, errors, or inaccuracies in their reporting.

  • Adhering to Ethical Standards: News reporters uphold ethical standards and principles of journalism, including integrity, honesty, transparency, and independence. They avoid conflicts of interest, bias, sensationalism, and plagiarism in their reporting, maintaining the trust and credibility of their audience.


Working conditions

The workplace of a news reporter is dynamic, fast-paced, and often unpredictable. News reporters can work in a variety of settings, including newsrooms, field assignments, press conferences, and remote locations. The newsroom serves as the central hub where reporters gather, research, write, and edit news stories under the supervision of editors and news directors. In the newsroom, reporters collaborate with colleagues, pitch story ideas, conduct research, conduct interviews, and meet deadlines to produce news content for publication or broadcast.

Field assignments are an integral part of a news reporter's job, requiring them to travel to various locations to cover events, interview sources, and gather information for their stories. Field reporters may cover breaking news, events, or emergencies as they unfold, providing live updates and on-the-scene reporting to their audience. Field reporters must be adaptable, resourceful, and able to work efficiently under pressure, often facing tight deadlines and challenging conditions while delivering accurate and compelling news coverage.

In addition to traditional newsrooms and field assignments, news reporters may also work remotely or from home, especially with the rise of digital media and online journalism. Remote work allows reporters to conduct research, interviews, and writing tasks from any location with an internet connection, providing flexibility and convenience. However, remote reporters must stay connected with their editors, colleagues, and sources through email, phone calls, video conferences, and social media to collaborate effectively and ensure timely delivery of news content.


Tools and technologies

News Reporters need to have computers for research within their office as well as being comfortable with microphones and ear phones for communication.

A news reporter might have a basic understanding of photography, specifically if they're attending an event to gain information. If there's a time sensitive breaking news event, they might use this ability to get photos of the incident. They may also learn how to operate a shirt microphone, hand-held microphone and an ear piece for communication throughout broadcasting. Some other equipment a news reporter might understand how to use effectively is voice recording equipment for interviews and notepads or a laptop and tablet for effective documentation and communication.

Some news reporters also podcast their news. Look at the Podcaster to see the tools required.


Education and training/entrance requirements

In Australia, while not always a strict requirement, a Bachelor's degree in Journalism, or a related field with a major in Journalism, is generally considered the most common pathway to becoming a news reporter. These degrees provide a strong foundation in essential skills like writing, research, and ethics, which are crucial for success in the field


Employment Opportunities

There are numerous opportunities for a news reporter from TV, Radio and Podcasting across Australia as well as overseas.

 

Journalist Backroads Kristy O'Brien
Kristy O'Brien at Timber Creek NT
(Source: ABC)

 


Sports Commentator
   Information, Media and Telecommunications

Analytic or Scientific
Skill Level 4Skill Level 5

 

Sports commentators discuss and describe sporting matches or events for the benefit of viewers or listeners not able to be there live. Future Growth Static
A sports commentator describes the progress of play during broadcasts of sporting events and explains the technicalities and the tactics of the sport to the audience.

Sports commentators describe the action and provide colorful commentary for broadcasts of sporting events. They can work in television or radio or for an internet media outlet. Former coaches and players are hired for commentary jobs while other announcers handle the play-by-play duties.

Overall, sports commentators are very knowledgeable sports fanatics who provide coverage for games or competitions in a certain sport. While some commentators may only provide on-air commentary, others may specialize in conducting research or supervising the production of different sporting events. The road towards becoming a sports commentator may be lined with steep competition, but this career is the ideal path for individuals with superb communications skills who have a passion for helping others enjoy sports.

ANZSCO ID: 212499

Alternative names: Sports broadcaster, announcer, broadcaster, sportscaster,

Specialisations: a particular sport or code

Sports Commentators at Olympics
Channel 7s Sports Commentators at Olympics
(Source: Mediaweek)

Knowledge, skills and attributes     

To become a sports commentator, you would need:

  • excellent communication skills
  • a clear voice and good pronunciation
  • good presentation skills
  • confidence when talking to large numbers of people
  • a genuine interest in sports
  • a knowledge of one or more sports, the teams that are playing and their players
  • the ability to quickly summarize what's happening during the game.
  • The ability to offer commentary on the game.
  • The ability to banter with your on-air colleagues.
  • Knowledge of how the particular form of broadcasting works
  • to remain impartial during commentary.
        

In order to be successful, sports commentators must have exceptional public speaking skills with a pleasing voice, good pronunciation, solid timing, and witty personality. Most sports commentators must write their own material for presenting on the air, so writing skills are a must. Research skills are important because sports commentators need to find up-to-date information on the latest sports topics for commenting on during the broadcast. Sports commentators should have excellent interpersonal skills to make interviewing guests, interacting with other broadcasters, and answering phone calls on air more comfortable. It’s also essential that sports commentators in radio have the technical skills to operate computers and editing equipment.

Sports commentators must combine all of those attributes so the things they say engage the audience and come across as friendly and intelligent. They should let their personalities shine through but not to the extent that they interfere with viewer and listener enjoyment of the game.

Sports Announcer
(Source: Balance Careers)

Duties and Tasks

As a sports commentator, you might:

  • research the participants and their clubs or teams before the event
  • commentate on the build up and interview relevant people before the start
  • work with the production team to plan how the event will be run
  • take direction from the producer during the match or event
  • describe the run of play in depth for listeners
  • have relevant statistics to hand for in-between periods of play
  • summarise what has happened after the event and offer expert opinion on it.

 

Life on the Job - Aaron Bryans Cameo

LOTJ

“I had always wanted to be a writer while also having a passion for sport. After visiting Open Day at Curtin, I was tossing up between sports science and journalism. I opted for the latter and never looked back.

“I graduated in 2015 with extensive print, radio and TV journalism knowledge and ended up getting a job with the ABC shortly afterwards,” says the young reporter.

In his role with the public broadcaster, Bryans interviews athletes, cuts and archives audio, researches facts on players and teams, and studies numbers ahead of weekend commentary calls for games (Bryans hints that if you want to be a sports commentator, you have to be prepared to give up your Saturdays and Sundays).

“Alongside commentating, weekend days can end up being 12-plus hours long depending on other factors, such as hosting or producing the ABC’s talkback radio show, SportsTalk, or hosting or producing national AFL games.

“During the summer we also have our National Grandstand radio show on the weekends alongside our cricket and basketball coverage.”
The ABC is home to some of Australia’s best sports journalists and commentators, and tuning in to National Grandstand or SportsTalk throughout the year is a revered pastime for many a discerning sports fan.

“From a commentary aspect, the ABC prides itself on its in-depth knowledge of players, teams and history of the sport,” Bryans says.
“Our commentary is descriptive and informative, focusing on the game, not the commentary team itself. We want listeners to know the score and where the ball is at all times while allowing the experts to delve deeper into the analytical aspect of the game.”

Bryans discovered his passion for sports journalism after racking up hours of work experience in the media industry, which helped him to figure out the areas of journalism he excelled at and enjoyed most.

He says his work experience, which was often organised through Curtin, gave him an advantage when it came to applying for graduate roles.

“When there are so many graduates competing for a position, the easiest way to stand above the rest is to have already done some work within the industry.

“Through networking and relationships with my tutors, I was able to tee up paid and unpaid work with The West Australian, The Sunday Times, Xpress Magazine, ScienceNetwork WA [now Particle], RTRFM and the Fremantle Dockers during my degree.
“The biggest factor in achieving these opportunities was work ethic, taught through real-time newsroom environments during my degree, which stressed speed and efficiency while also striving for accuracy.”

He says working with the Fremantle Dockers was a particular highlight of the journalism course.

Aaron Bryans

“The Sports Media Production/Docker TV unit at Curtin is an incredible opportunity developed through Curtin’s partnership with the Fremantle Dockers. It runs as an advanced work experience unit that enables students to work for the Dockers, have their work edited and published for their portfolio and expose them to the lifestyle of a media worker in the Australian Rules Football landscape.
“It also gave me a chance to work with a team of students, each with unique talents such as writing, filming, editing, lighting and audio.”

While he’s only just cut his teeth in the industry, Bryans has already kicked a few career goals, including assisting with the coverage of the 2016 and 2017 AFL Grand Final, won by the Western Bulldogs and Richmond Tigers respectively.

Although he’s a Richmond fan, Bryans says he was more impressed by the Bulldogs’ 2016 grand final win than the victory of the boys in yellow and black last year.

“As a Richmond supporter, the 2017 grand final was a huge day for me, but as any neutral supporter would tell you, the game itself wasn’t overly entertaining. The Bulldogs 2016 premiership, however, was an incredibly exciting and unpredictable tale – hearing from fans who’d waited decades to see their team reach this point, and being in the crowd when the siren finally sounded for a team who finished 7th on the AFL ladder but won the premiership.”

As well as covering national AFL games, he has also produced Ashes cricket coverage for National Grandstand and worked courtside at National Basketball League games.

Bryans will be back in Melbourne this year for the 2018 AFL Grand Final, where he will cover the game on social media and assist with player interviews and photography. He’ll no doubt also be soaking up the atmosphere and perhaps brushing shoulders with some of the game’s superstars.

He doesn’t take any of it for granted and says there’s still much for him to learn, including the art of calling an AFL grand final game. As long as he’s challenged, he says he’ll never forfeit his passion for sports journalism.

“The best part about the job for me personally is how it’s constantly challenging. I always found with previous jobs I’d get bored once I’d mastered a specific aspect of it.

“In journalism, your job is constantly evolving. I started out as a producer and over the years have moved into hosting and commentating. There are always new things to learn and new stories to delve into.”
(Source: Curtin University)

Working conditions

As a sports commentator you would work irregular long hours. Generally you would be commentating live at sporting events, which often take place in the evenings and at weekends.

Sports commentators work most prominently in broadcast booths at stadiums and other sporting venues. They may also work in an office-type setting while preparing for broadcasts.

You would travel locally, nationally and internationally to wherever the sport is being played. Depending on the sport you may be in a commentary box or outside in all sort of weathers. You may also spend time in a studio pre-recordng interviews or promotional pieces.

Tools and technologies

Aaron Bryans at production desk
Aaron Bryans at production desk at ABC Radio Perth
(Source: Curtin University)

Instant replay is an example of the remarkable technology being used in sports today. With this technology, officials are able to see exactly what happened, providing a second perspective on sports events.

Sensor tools are often used to analyze whether a goal is valid or not. It is often used in cases where the naked eye cannot truly tell if a ball went past the goal line. Different sports use varying sensor tools. For example, cricket’s Hawk-Eye technology analyzes sound to determine if the ball smashed into the bat before it was caught. Hawk-Eye is also used to determine where the ball would have landed if it had not hit a player’s foot. This establishes whether the ball was unfairly blocked from striking the wicket. On the other hand, tennis sensor tools use laser beams to determine whether the tennis ball went out of bounds or not. Sensor technologies help to accurately determine the position of the ball at a given time.

Nobody uses a stopwatch when timing a race anymore. This means that differences in reaction time no longer affect the precision and consistency of a racing event. In many races today, the starter pistol is linked to a clock. Once the pistol goes off, the clock immediately starts timing the race. On the other hand, swimming uses a touch pad placed at the finish lanes as well as wearable inertial sensors to determine performance. Many racing events also use laser beams and photographs to determine winners.

RFID chips are often used to time individual contestants in an event. The devices use antennas that relay wireless signals. RFID chips are often used in long distance races to help sports commentators and viewers track the exact locations of contestants during a race. There are two types of chips used in races: active and passive chips. Active chips have an in-built battery or power source and can determine the exact time a participant crosses a specific line. Passive chips can only be used with sensors placed in a mat because they do not have an in-built power source.

Education and training/entrance requirements

You can work as a sports commentator without formal qualifications. However, many sports commentators begin their careers in other roles in media, such as journalism or research. Most entry level roles in the media will require a university degree in media, communication or journalism. To get into these degree courses you usually need to gain your senior secondary school certificate or equivalent with English.

Many sports commentators are ex-professionals in their chosen sports, who have retired and moved into commentating, thereby making it harder for others without the sporting experience to get roles.

Entry level roles in the media are extremely competitive. You should try to gain some experience by volunteering or undertaking an internship in community, university or commercial media.

ABC Grandstand
ABC's Grandstand Commentators

 

Print Journalist
   Information, Media and Telecommunications

Clerical or OrganisingAnalytic or ScientificSkill Level 4Skill Level 5

Print Journalists collect and analyse facts about newsworthy events by interview, investigation and observation and write stories for newspapers, magazines or journals. Future Growth Static

ANZSCO ID: 212413

Specialisations: Columnist, Feature Writer, Leader Writer, Newspaper Reporter.

Duties and Tasks

  • Collects and analyses facts about newsworthy events from interviews, printed matter, investigations and observations.

  • Writes news reports, commentaries, articles and feature stories for newspapers, magazines, and journals on topics of public interest.


Education and training/entrance requirements

You usually need a bachelor degree in journalism, followed by a one-year cadetship involving on the job training, to work as a Print Journalist. Training is also available through VET (Vocational Education and Training).

 

 

Did You Know?
Superman's alter ego, Clark Kent, was a reporter for a newspaper called The Daily Planet.

Superman Stamp


 

Radio Journalist
   Information, Media and Telecommunications

Clerical or OrganisingAnalytic or ScientificSkill Level 4Skill Level 5

Radio Journalists collect and analyse facts about newsworthy events by interview, investigation and observation and write stories for radio news or current affairs programs. Future Growth Static

ANZSCO ID: 212414

Duties and Tasks

  • Collects and analyses facts about newsworthy events from interviews, printed matter, investigations and observations.
  • Writes news reports, commentaries, articles and feature stories for radio on topics of public interest.


Education and training/entrance requirements


You usually need a bachelor degree in journalism, followed by a one-year cadetship involving on the job training, to work as a Radio Journalist. Training is also available through VET (Vocational Education and Training).


Television Journalist
   Information, Media and Telecommunications

Clerical or OrganisingAnalytic or ScientificSkill Level 4Skill Level 5

 

Television Journalists collect and analyse facts about newsworthy events by interview, investigation and observation and write stories for television news or current affairs programs. Future Growth Static

ANZSCO ID: 212416


Duties and Tasks

  • Collects and analyses facts about newsworthy events from interviews, printed matter, investigations and observations.

  • Writes news reports, commentaries, articles and feature stories for television on topics of public interest.


Education and training/entrance requirements

You usually need a bachelor degree in journalism, followed by a one-year cadetship involving on-the-job training, to work as a Television Journalist. Training is also available through VET (Vocational Education and Training).

Music Critic
   Information, Media and Telecommunications


Clerical or OrganisingArtistic or CreativeSkill Level 3Skill Level 4Skill Level 5

A music critic is employed by major print media publishers to report on the performing arts. Local areas usually have part-time critics who report regularly on local and visiting artists in the local press. The usual tasks of a music critic include writing reviews of newly released cd's and records and conducting interviews with musicians, performers, and, bands. Future Growth Static

Music Critics are employed by newspapers and blogs to interview musicians, review performances and albums, and sometimes cover music news. Although most publications have a few full-time Music Critics on staff, due to the increasing importance of music blogs, more and more critics work freelance.

The great thing about the music industry is that there is an endless input of new songs and continued discovery of new talents. As long as there are songs to be written, artists who perform it and people who listen and appreciate them, the opportunity for a music critic is vast. The road to becoming a respected music critic comes with its own set of obstacles. Rejection from publications is one that you will face and must overcome. Nevertheless, if you succeed, this career path will bring you both professional and personal satisfaction.

ANZSCO ID: 212499

Alternative names: Music journalists; Music writers

Knowledge, skills and attributes     

  • Not only should you be a good writer, but also be a good communicator and interviewer.

  • Be familiar with various types of music.

  • Have ample knowledge of music history and notable musicians whether past or present.

  • Always be updated on upcoming artists and newly released songs.

  • Be fair, honest and impartial in your opinions.

  • If you're a freelancer, ask whether you will be paid per word or per article.

  • Build your portfolio      

Music Critic
 (Source: Careers in Music)

Duties and Tasks

As with any journalist, the job of a music critic is to write articles based on the information they have gathered. They listen to cd's, attend concerts and talk to musicians in order to get more input for the material they are going to write. The articles they create are based on both fact and their personal impartial reaction to the music, song or artist. They inform consumers which albums are worth buying and which artists are worth seeing.

Working conditions

"Although some Music Critics work in offices, the majority work from home, so it can be isolating. As Patrin mentioned above, a Critic’s daily schedule varies depending on the workload from a few hours of writing a busy day where deadlines must be met. He says, “It can be pretty indoorsy, though part of the job can and will involve going out to live shows (often for free!) so that’s an incentive in itself.”

"Of a typical day on the job, Music Critic Nate Patrin says, “I freelance, so it’s a mix of things — listening to new albums as I get them, checking social media/blogs for info and leads on things people are talking about or just random stuff that seems interesting, pitching story ideas/reviews to editors, and doing the writing, research, and interview work itself.

“Even on the slowest days, I’m usually doing at least two or three of these things during working hours, which can be a few hours of the day or the majority of my waking hours depending on deadlines and workload.”

Since the job involves a lot of time behind the computer, day-to-day work can be solitary. As to people he works with, Patrin says, “I contact Publicists every so often, but the vast majority of my working relationships are with Editors.” (Source: Careers in Music)

Education and training/entrance requirements

It may be possible to build a following as a music critic through online reviewing without any specific education, although employment in this field typically requires a bachelor's degree, and most music critics have a relevant master's degree. Many music critics write on a freelance or part-time basis, providing articles to multiple publications.

Music critics combine music studies with journalism. They may write for a variety of print and online publications covering specialized genres or broad ranges of music. A bachelor's degree in journalism or in a music-related field, such as music theory or musical performance, is considered the minimum education for a job as a music critic; however, many critics have earned a master's degree. Writers with a love for music and in-depth knowledge of music artistry may want to explore this path.

 

Science Journalist
    Information, Media and Telecommunications

Clerical or OrganisingAnalytic or ScientificSkill Level 5

As a science journalist you will be reporting on some of the latest discoveries or advancements in science. This might involve writing for a newspaper or magazine, talking on radio or reporting on a television program as a broadcast journalist. You have a big job researching science stories, talking with people, analysing data and presenting the information in a way that is easily understood by the public. You may be writing for an online newsletter, print magazine or doing a radio or television broadcast so you need to be familiar across all the different media forms. FutureGrowthModerate

Most of a journalist’s time is spent talking to people to get information about a story either over the phone or face to face and working to short deadlines. You might come up with your own idea for a story or you might follow up information sent to you in a media release.

Being a journalist requires an excellent understanding of English and grammar. Your job is to communicate information accurately and concisely. Spelling and facts need to be correct otherwise your credibility as a reliable journalist could be damaged.

Having strong skills in mathematics will also be useful to understand scientific concepts or to interpret graphs and data. Lots of stories often come from data results so you need to understand them and accurately report on them. If you enjoy writing and learning new things, then a career as a science journalist could be for you.

Science writers cover fields which are undergoing rapid advances and changes, giving them the chance to report on exciting and ground-breaking developments

As a science writer you'll research, write and edit scientific news, articles and features, for business, trade and professional publications, specialist scientific and technical journals, and the general media, including television, radio and blogs. As a Scientific writer, you report on scientific news for the media and take on a more investigatory, critical role. Science writing for non-media outlets involves communicating scientific research to a professional or lay audience, either for journals, promotional brochures and websites or as press releases.

Some science writing jobs might have an element of editing or broader communications responsibilities in addition to researching and writing. Science writers need to understand complex scientific information, theories and practices. You should be able to write in clear, concise and accurate language that can be understood by the general public.

Did You Know?

Dr Karl Kruszelnicki AM
Science enthusiast and educator
2025 NSW Senior Australian of the Year
Taken directly from Australian of the Year

Dr Karl Kruszelnicki AM brings science to life with wit and charm. In 1981, he walked into ABC Radio station Triple J and offered to talk about the Space Shuttle launch. Great Moments in Science ran while Karl pursued his medical career.

Karl may have continued in paediatric medicine had it not been for the death of a baby from whooping cough. At the time, disinformation was circulating that vaccines didn’t work. Appalled by the harm caused, Karl decided to quit medicine and make science communication his full-time career.

Karl presented on Quantum, co-hosted Sleek Geeks and appears regularly on radio and TV. His national weekly, one-hour science talkback show on Triple J, Science with Dr Karl, attracts more than 750,000 listeners, while the podcast downloads are over six million. He’s authored 48 popular science books and even built a machine to pick up electrical signals from the human retina for Fred Hollows.

With infectious enthusiasm, Karl continues his mission to spread the good news about science and its benefits.

Meet your Australians - 2025 NSW Senior Australian of the Year Dr Karl Kruszelnicki AM
https://youtu.be/soy5mWVmGEc?si=7e-w5iUOndu4gQvP

ANZSCO ID: 2124

Alternative names: Science writer, Science Communicator, Scientific Journalist,

Specialisations: TV, Radio, Social Media,

Knowledge, skills and attributes  

  • excellent written and oral communication skills
  • a strong interest in science
  • the ability to think logically and understand complex ideas and data
  • good organisational and time management skills
  • ability to work under pressure to deadlines
  • resilience, flexibility, persistence and self-motivation
  • a sound understanding of standard computer programs.organising and curating public events and exhibits for science organisations  

12 Quality Indicators for Science Communication
(Source: Quest Project)

Duties and Tasks

The particular activities you'll undertake depend on the nature of your role and who you're writing for. Common activities include:

  • producing articles for publication in print and online according to agreed style, and keeping to strict deadlines
  • conducting interviews with scientists, doctors and academics and establishing a network of industry experts
  • attending academic and press conferences
  • visiting research establishments
  • reading and researching specialist media and literature, e.g. scientific papers, company reports, newspapers, magazines and journals, press releases and internet resources including social media
  • attending meetings or taking part in conference calls with clients, scientists or other writers
  • meeting with colleagues to plan the content of a document or publication
  • conducting reference searches
  • reviewing and amending work in response to editor feedback
  • selecting appropriate artwork to accompany articles
  • occasionally reading page proofs from printers and checking colour proofs.
  • broadcasting science on TV and radio
  • publicising science through websites and social media
  • editing and publishing scientific content.      

Working conditions

Working hours vary, although if you're working in-house you'll typically be working 9am to 5pm. However, science writers sometimes have to work long hours to meet deadlines, so you'll need a flexible approach to working extra to accommodate breaking news and in-depth, time consuming projects. Work is primarily office based but visits to meet with clients or to interview experts may be required.

Writers working for smaller and non-media organisations will likely receive informal, on-the-job training. This includes receiving feedback from editors, peers and clients, and learning from more experienced colleagues. In general, writers must be open minded, able to accept criticism and willing to make changes to their writing style. As a writer, you'll also learn to improve your writing through regularly reading the work of other good scientific communicators.

It's important to keep up to date with any advances in the science industry. Attending science-related conferences and gaining membership to any relevant professional bodies are a way of maintaining an ongoing knowledge of the industry.


Science writers often work on a freelance basis, putting forward ideas for articles to science editors and by getting 'on the books' as a regular freelance writer for one or more organisations. If this applies to you, you may work from home or travel to company offices if you've been contracted for a certain amount of work. Jobs are available in cities throughout Australia.
 
Travel during the working day is common. Writers may also travel internationally to attend conferences and visit clients.

Tools and technologies

Science Journalists use computers for research and writing, but may also use notepads and pens, dictaophones or portable sound and video recording devices, and may even be involved in the use of photographic and digital video equipment.

Education and training/entrance requirements

Broadly speaking, there are two routes you can take to become a science writer:

  • move from a science career into writing
  • move from journalism into specialist science writing.

Some science writers have a science degree and sometimes even a postgraduate science qualification. A scientist can either start writing immediately upon graduation, or can move into the industry after several years of scientific research.

Sometimes writers with science degrees take on a further postgraduate qualification in journalism or scientific communications in order to further their scientific writing careers. These courses aim to help those from a science-based background distil complex information to a level that the general public can understand.

Degrees specifically in science communication are available from a range of Australian universities.

Employment Opportunities

 Jobs in science communication are generally on the rise - fewer science journalism roles are on offer, however.

 Political Satirist
   Information, Media and Telecommunications

Artistic or CreativeAnalytic or ScientificSkill Level 4Skill Level 5

Satire is a writing style that often educates and entertains its readers. You might write satire if you work for newspapers or media outlets, create your own fiction or nonfiction writing or simply want to add elements of exaggeration and humour into your professional writing. Knowing the most effective satire techniques can help connect you with your readers or gain a new audience who enjoys that style of writing.

Satire is the use of literary devices such as humour, exaggeration or irony to educationally criticize someone or something. Public figures, politicians, political groups, prominent philosophies and popular culture are some of the most common targets of satire. Satire is a way to provide social commentary, and you can use satire in various literary genres such as comics, novels, short stories, poetry and humorous news articles or essays.

Here are the three main types of satire:

Horatian: Horatian is satire aimed at flaws in humans rather than societal issues. Its primary goal is often to entertain based on relatable topics rather than to educate on larger issues.


Juvenalian: Juvenalian satire is often political satire used to expose flaws, injustices or other problems in a society or group of people. It's often more serious in tone than Horatian satire.


Menippean: Menippean satire is writing that targets people's attitudes. It's similar to Horatian satire, as it's focused on an individual, but its serious tone is more similar to Juvenalian satire.

A great example of Political Satire from Sammy J:

I Can’t Call Australia Home | Sammy J (S4 Ep12) 6 May 2021
https://youtu.be/UW-C0PAocBU

 


ANZSCO ID: 212499

 

Who uses satire and Political Satire?

Professional writers in any genre might use satire. If you're a professional writer, consider using satire to comment on relevant topics using techniques such as parody. Satire provides your audience with information often disguised as entertainment or silly content. Newspaper writers might include a satire section, and comic writers, essayists and novelists are some of the most common professionals to use satire.

7 satire techniques
  

Satire techniques are strategies professional writers use to incorporate satire into their work.

Here are seven techniques to consider when writing satire:

1. Exaggeration
   

Exaggeration entails making a situation or person look better or worse than they are by overstating or understating certain characteristics beyond reality. Exaggeration typically considers a person's or situation's real characteristics and makes them seem ridiculous or far-fetched. For example, consider the constantly increasing size of mobiles. When employing satire, you might write about a future version of a phone that requires both hands to carry.

Here are a few common examples of exaggeration:

Caricature: Caricature is the exaggeration of physical characteristics. For example, if you describe someone as tall, you might compare them to a tree or a building.

Burlesque: Burlesque exaggeration is the exaggeration of language. This might include creating new words based on how someone from a particular city pronounces them.

Overstating and understating: These techniques either increase or decrease a person, object or idea's size or significance. Understating the effects of something can show a character's deception while overstating can highlight a person's desires in relation to reality.


2. Incongruity
  

Incongruity is an often absurd method of satire where you present something unexpected into an otherwise normal scene or story. Comic writers commonly use this style where the actions of characters in a scene might seem normal, but the caption displays incongruity. In writing, you might write a story about a baby as the CEO of a company or a leader of a political party. They might wear a suit or hold a phone, but still babble when communicating. Because these things are impossible or incongruous, this situation is satirical.

3. Reversal
  

Reversal is a type of satire that switches the positions of two things or people. This can be effective to highlight absurdities in human actions or behaviours. For example, a story of a life-size dog walking a human on a leash is a reversal. Reversal often exposes problematic qualities in situations or characteristics that we view as normal.

 

Donald: The Musical (w/ Tim Minchin, Ben Platt & Abigail Spencer) 21 March 2017
Tim Minchin, Ben Platt, Abigail Spencer and James Corden perform a parody of Matilda's "When I Grow Up" playing the roles of Donald Trump, Sean Spicer, Kellyanne Conway and Steve Bannon, respectively, wondering what running the world would be like as adults.
https://youtu.be/WZWNHCRCpNM?si=Nl1kCJT-L7ZU2OMR

 



4. Parody
  

Parody in satire is the act of imitating either a person or an original work. In writing, you might mimic the chapter structure, setting or main characters in a particular work but alter other elements. If your reader recognizes the original work in your writing, the parody you employ might be more effective. Parodies often mock common conventions in literature and style. For example, in a parody article, you might write the headline "Major Celebrity Eats Lunch." Though this isn't an authentic article, it mimics the absurdity of celebrity culture and paparazzi emphasizing mundane activities.

5. Irony
  

Irony is satire that compares what someone actually means with their language against what they actually say or do. Here are the four main types of irony:

  • Verbal: Verbal irony is when the meaning of what someone says is the opposite of the intended message. For instance, if it's expected to rain in the forecast, satirically saying that there's a beautiful weekend ahead is an example of verbal irony.

  • Dramatic: Dramatic irony is when a situation occurs despite what a character knows. For example, if a character ends a relationship to be with someone else and that other person is in a relationship with another person, that's a situation that features dramatic irony.

  • Situational: Situational irony is the difference between what people expect to happen and what actually happens. For example, you might write a story where a man walks to work only to find his office permanently closed.

  • Socratic: Socratic irony is when a person pretends to be ignorant for personal gain. This reveals information to the audience through one character tricking another character.

Consider using irony in your writing to explain contradictory ideas and to make your writing more appealing to audiences.

6. Anachronism
  

Anachronism is a type of satire that places people or objects in other periods of time. For example, including cars in a story about dinosaurs is an example of anachronism. This could show philosophical differences or behavioural differences between people and time periods, adding a silly and entertaining element to your writing.
  
7. Malapropism
  

Malapropism is the intentional mispronunciation or misuse of a word by a writer. For example, a character might say that the class should rent a "liberty book." Liberty almost sounds like library, so the reader knows the intent. This creates entertaining content and can often reflect real mispronunciations made by public figures.

 


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