Publisher

Publishers are trade professionals who oversee the printing, binding, finishing, and despatch processes at publishing houses. They lead teams of printers, graphic artists, and processing crews and may coordinate the production of books, magazines, brochures, posters, business cards, and stationary.

As a publisher you may be providing a quote to a prospective client, working on a design concept for a book cover, or overseeing the setup and operation of the printing press. Many publishers also arrange team meetings, manage print productivity, purchase raw materials, and meet with publishing clients.

Future demand Medium
Average yearly income $92,300
Skill level Advanced

How do I become a publisher?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced
Recommended

Bachelor of Arts (Media and Communication)
Blended, On Campus
3 years
$0 - $39,177
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Content Creator Journalist Public Relations Officer
Social Media Manager Communications Officer Media Officer Media Lawyer Content Editor Advertising Specialist Content Executive Radio Broadcaster Casting Agent Creative Director Publisher Media Consultant
+ 12 more

Bachelor of Communication
Blended, On Campus, Online
3 years
$0 - $97,200
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Editor Communications Adviser Communications Manager
Journalist Community Engagement Officer Podcaster Change And Communications Manager Content Editor Music Journalist Public Affairs Consultant Media Advisor Content Writer Content Executive Media Buyer Publisher Communications Coordinator Media Consultant Content Specialist
+ 15 more

Bachelor of Arts (Creative Writing)
Blended, On Campus
3 years
$0 - $72,720
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Author Novelist Playwright
Screenwriter Writer Scriptwriter Music Journalist Content Writer Publisher Advertising Copywriter Biographer Fiction Writer Proofreader Travel Writer Literary Agent Publishing Assistant Technical Writer
+ 14 more
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

Related occupations

Printing Machinist

A Printing Machinist operates printing equipment to produce printed materials while monitoring print quality, preparing images for printing, and performing binding tasks.

Avg yearly income $66,612
Skill level Beginner

Pre-Press Operator

A Pre-Press Operator prepares text and images for printing, ensuring quality and layout, while using software and equipment for production.

Avg yearly income $65,000
Skill level Advanced

Publishing Assistant

A Publishing Assistant supports publication production by coordinating schedules, proofreading, and liaising with designers and printers.

Avg yearly income $52,000
Skill level Advanced

Publishing Coordinator

A Publishing Coordinator manages publication production, coordinating teams, editing content, and ensuring timely project completion.

Avg yearly income $69,680
Skill level Advanced

3D Printing Technician

A 3D Printing Technician operates and maintains 3D printers to produce prototypes and finished products, ensuring quality and efficiency in the process.

Avg yearly income $78,000
Skill level Advanced

Common questions

How much do Publishers earn?

Publishers, along with other printing professionals, can earn upward of $1,775 per week ($92,300 annually). You can increase your earning capacity by obtaining qualifications in leadership, management, and business administration.Please note: These are median figures for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only.

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

What are the job opportunities for Publishers?

While there are no specific employment figures for publishers, there are currently 10,000-15,000 printing professionals working in Australia. This is a declining occupation and there may be a reduction in job opportunties for publishers over the next 5 years.

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

How do I become a Publisher?

Publishers are usually trade qualified and have completed a 4-year printing apprenticeship. Launch your career by completing the Certificate II in Certificate II in Printing and Graphic Arts or the Certificate III in Print Binding, Finishing. and Packaging. You will also benefit from supporting qualifications in leadership, business administration, and graphic design.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023

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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)

Career spotlight: Advertising and marketing professionals

2nd October 2019)

What can you do with a Diploma of Business?

3rd March 2021)

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