Duties and Tasks

Journalists may perform the following tasks:

• gather news and information by interviewing people and attending events
• undertake research to provide background information for articles
• assess the suitability of reports and articles for publication or broadcasting, within an established style and format, and edit as necessary
• write articles that comment on or interpret news events and that may put forward a point of view on behalf of the publication
• present news on air.

Specialisations

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. See the separate entry for Editor.

Columnist
Feature Writer
Leader Writer
News Reporter
Roundsperson

Work Conditions

Journalists usually start as cadets and report routine events. In newspapers and on radio and television, most reporters are expected to be 'generalists', that is, able to cover almost any topic of interest.

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 complete work to meet deadlines.

Reporters may work indoors and carry out interviews by telephone or may have to work outdoors in all kinds of weather. Travel is sometimes a necessary part of the work.

Personal Requirements

• 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 when working on radio and television.

Related Industries

Publishing (except Internet and Music Publishing)
Library and Other Information Services
Creative and Performing Arts Activities

Labour Market

Information

Australian JobOutlook for Journalists

Vacancies

Australian JobSearch for Journalists (ALL AUSTRALIA)
Work Opportunities websites

Related Jobs

Copywriter
Editor
Media Presenter
Policy Analyst
Publisher
Technical Writer
Transcript Typist
Writer