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Media Presenter

Also known as Announcer, Broadcaster, Radio and Television Announcer, Disc Jockey, DJ, News Reader, Radio Announcer and Television Presenter.

Media presenters deliver a variety of radio, television and live programmes, including all music formats, music and chat programmes, interview and talkback programmes, news bulletins and sports programmes.

They may also present rock and classical music concerts that are broadcast live to air, and pre-recorded programmes such as documentary and music specials.

Areas of specialisation include sports commentator, disc jockey, newsreader, talkback announcer and political commentator.

Media presenters may be required to work irregular hours, including weekends. On-camera presenters need to be well groomed.

Specialist presenters, such as sports and political commentators, should have a solid knowledge of the subject they are presenting.

TASKS

Media presenters may perform the following tasks:

announce programmes, music and entertainment items
read commercials, both live and pre-recorded
read news bulletins
provide station identification, time, weather and community announcements
introduce live performances
conduct interviews and host talkback programmes
make live action commentary on sporting events, politics, and social and economic matters
work off-camera in television announcing programmes
host panel shows and live variety shows
interview personalities at special events, or in studios for live or taped broadcasts
introduce performers and host special events
write their own scripts

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

clear speaking voice with good command of English
broad general knowledge
interest in current affairs and/or music
technical ability to operate broadcasting equipment
able to work under pressure
good communication skills
willing to work in country areas

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

You can work as a media presenter without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications.

You may like to consider a VOC qualification in media or screen and media. Applicants may be required to attend an audition or an interview. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information. You may be able to study through distance education.

You can also become a media presenter through a traineeship in Media or Screen and Media.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Alternatively, you can become a media presenter by studying media, communication or journalism at university. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12 with English.

Applicants may be required to attend an audition or an interview. Most universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact Open Universities Australia or the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Educational and community radio stations are mainly staffed by volunteers. They offer you experience and often conduct their own short courses or offer opportunities for you to gain credit towards training package qualifications. Contact your local station or the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia for more details.

Additional Information

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Screen and Media Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Media presenters work for radio and television stations and advertising production houses. Competition is very strong for any positions offered. There are often more vacancies in country radio stations, which is where inexperienced media presenters usually begin their careers. Successful applicants are often those with knowledge in special areas of interest such as sport, music or drama.