How to become a Cartographer
Applies scientific, mathematical and cartographic design principles to prepare and revise maps, charts and other forms of cartographic output.
Main tasks
- Collects, researches and analyses geographic data for map and chart creation
- Utilises geographic information systems (GIS) to organise and analyse spatial data
- Creates and updates digital maps and charts using computer software
- Prepares reports and presentations for cartographic communication
Ways in
- University: Agriculture & Environment degrees, Offered by 27 universities in Australia
- TAFE and VET: Certificate IV in Engineering Drafting (MEM40422); Certificate III in Surveying and Spatial Information Services (CPP30221); Diploma of Spatial Information Services (CPP50221); Diploma of Surveying (CPP50121)
Pay · Outlook · AI and this job
- Typical full-time pay: $119,600 a year
- About 19,600 people work in this job group now, and about 23,200 are projected by 2035. (+18.6%)
- 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 a Cartographer?
Ways in include: Agriculture & Environment degrees; Certificate IV in Engineering Drafting; Certificate III in Surveying and Spatial Information Services.
How much does a Cartographer earn in Australia?
Median full-time pay is $119,600 a year (Jobs and Skills Australia).
Is a Cartographer a growing career in Australia?
Yes. Employment is projected to grow 19% by 2035, from about 19,600 to about 23,200 people (Jobs and Skills Australia).
Do you need a degree to become a Cartographer?
Not always. 44% of people in this job hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Ways in include: Agriculture & Environment degrees; Certificate IV in Engineering Drafting; Certificate III in Surveying and Spatial Information Services.
Will AI change the work of a Cartographer?
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