How do I become a professional dancer?
All skill levels
Beginner
Experienced
CUA20120
Certificate II in Dance
On Campus, Online
6 - 24 months
Unavailable
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
CUA51520
Diploma of Professional Dance (Elite Performance)
On Campus
1 year
Unavailable
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Bachelor of Fine Arts (Dance)
On Campus
3 years
$0 - $36,300
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Related occupations
Performer
A Performer entertains audiences through singing, acting, dancing, or playing instruments, often requiring talent, rehearsal, and flexibility.
Avg yearly income
$62,400
Skill level
Unknown
Dance Teacher Assistant
A Dance Teacher Assistant aids in teaching dance to students, refining skills, learning choreography, and providing support, requiring fitness and passion for dance.
Avg yearly income
$52,000
Skill level
Unknown
Ballet Dancer
A Ballet Dancer performs in productions, rehearsing extensively, auditioning for roles, and collaborating with teams while maintaining fitness.
Avg yearly income
$62,400
Skill level
Unknown
Contemporary Dancer
Contemporary Dancers perform in various productions, requiring talent, flexibility, teamwork, and commitment to fitness and rehearsals.
Avg yearly income
$62,400
Skill level
Unknown
Jazz Dancer
A Jazz Dancer performs in musical theatre, memorising choreography and routines, often rehearsing extensively and auditioning for roles.
Avg yearly income
$52,000
Skill level
Unknown
Tap Dancer
Tap Dancers perform choreographed routines, often in ensembles, requiring dedication, fitness, and attendance at auditions and rehearsals.
Avg yearly income
$62,400
Skill level
Unknown
Dance Teacher
A Dance Teacher instructs students in dance techniques, prepares them for performances, and provides feedback, requiring skill, passion, and patience.
Avg yearly income
$67,600
Skill level
Unknown
Choreographer
A Choreographer creates dance routines for performances, communicates effectively with dancers, and may specialise in various dance styles.
Avg yearly income
$62,400
Skill level
Unknown
Entertainer
An Entertainer engages audiences through performances like music and dance, preparing shows, promoting their work, and collaborating with others.
Avg yearly income
$78,000
Skill level
Unknown
Common questions
How much does a Professional Dancer earn?
In Australia, a full time Professional Dancer generally earns $1,250 per week ($65,000 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
Courses.com.au Team
Industry expert
What are the job opportunities for a Professional Dancer?
This industry has seen stable employment growth in recent years. There are currently 1,000 people working as a Professional Dancer in Australia, compared to 1,100 five years ago. Professional Dancers generally find work in larger cities where productions are based.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
Courses.com.au Team
Industry expert
How do I become a Professional Dancer?
A Certificate II in Dance is an ideal qualification if you’re planning a career as a Professional Dancer. This course covers basic dance techniques, artistic expression skills, safe dance practices and physical fitness. You’ll be able to focus on a particular style of dance including ballet, tap, street, contemporary or Aboriginal and cultural dance.
Courses.com.au Team
Industry expert
Further reading
Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers
10th November 2023)
