How to become an Antique Dealer
Organises and controls the operations of an antiques business, including buying and selling antiques such as furniture, art, jewellery and china.
Main tasks
- Manages the daily operations of an antiques business
- Sources and acquires antiques such as furniture, art, jewellery and china, for sale
- Inspects and evaluates the condition and authenticity of antiques
- Researches and appraises antiques to determine their market value
- Implements marketing and promotional activities to attract customers through various channels such as online platforms, auctions and fairs
- Provides expert advice and information to clients regarding the history, origin and value of antiques
- Negotiates and finalises the purchase and sale of antiques with clients
- Manages business finances, including budgeting and financial reporting
- May clean and restore antiques to enhance their appearance and value
Ways in
- TAFE and VET: Certificate III in Interior Decoration Retail Services (MSF31018)
- Licence or registration: Registration or licensing may be required.
Pay · Outlook · AI and this job
- Typical full-time pay: $84,240 a year
- About 250,700 people work in this job group now, and about 267,700 are projected by 2035. (+6.8%)
- AI is likely to change parts of this job. Jobs and Skills Australia rates its automation exposure as medium.
Related jobs
Not sure this is for you? Take the 2-minute career quiz
Questions people ask
How do I become an Antique Dealer?
Ways in include: Certificate III in Interior Decoration Retail Services.
How much does an Antique Dealer earn in Australia?
Median full-time pay is $84,240 a year (Jobs and Skills Australia).
Is an Antique Dealer a growing career in Australia?
Yes. Employment is projected to grow 7% by 2035, from about 250,700 to about 267,700 people (Jobs and Skills Australia).
Do you need a degree to become an Antique Dealer?
Not always. 28% of people in this job hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Ways in include: Certificate III in Interior Decoration Retail Services.
Will AI change the work of an Antique Dealer?
AI is likely to change parts of this job. Jobs and Skills Australia rates its automation exposure as medium.
Sources
- Jobs and Skills Australia: Occupation data (ANZSCO), from ABS Labour Force and Census (February 2026), CC BY 4.0, retrieved 2026-10-04
- Jobs and Skills Australia: Generative AI Capacity Study, interactive table data (September 2025), CC BY 4.0, retrieved 2026-10-04
- Jobs and Skills Australia: Employment Projections (Victoria University) (May 2025 to May 2035), CC BY 4.0, retrieved 2026-10-04
- Australian Taxation Office: Taxation Statistics, Individuals Table 15A (2023-24), CC BY 2.5 AU, retrieved 2026-10-04
Updated 2026-10-04