How to become a Tour Guide

Also called: Tour Leader

Accompanies and guides visitors on sightseeing, educational and other tours and experiences, and describes and explains points of interest and cultural or historical significance. May deliver information in languages other than English.

Main tasks

• Accompanies and guides visitors on tours, providing information and explanations about points of interest, and cultural, ecological or historical significance
• Transports visitors to and from their accommodation and points of interest
• Prepares and delivers informative and engaging commentary during tours
• Ensures the safety and wellbeing of tour participants throughout the tour
• Assists with the coordination and logistics of transportation, accommodation and meals for tour groups
• Provides recommendations and suggestions to visitors regarding local attractions, activities and services
• Answers questions and provides assistance to visitors, addressing any concerns or issues that may arise during the tour
• Conducts research to stay updated on local history, culture, ecology and attractions to enhance tour commentary
• Collaborates with other tour guides and tourism professionals to develop tour itineraries and experiences
• Maintains accurate records of tour schedules, participant numbers, and any incidents or feedback received

Ways in

• TAFE and VET: Certificate III in Guiding (SIT30322); Certificate III in Tourism (SIT30122); Certificate IV in Guiding (SIT40222); Certificate IV in Travel and Tourism (SIT40122); Diploma of Travel and Tourism Management (SIT50122); Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation (SIS20419); Certificate II in Tourism (SIT20122); Certificate III in Travel (SIT30222)

Pay · Outlook · AI and this job

• Typical full-time pay: $74,464 a year
• About 6,100 people work in this job group now, and about 6,700 are projected by 2035. (+9.3%)
• AI is likely to change parts of this job. Jobs and Skills Australia rates its automation exposure as medium.

Related jobs

• Gallery or Museum Guide
• Tourist Information Officer
• Driving Instructor
• Hair or Beauty Salon Assistant
• Natural Remedy Consultant
• Beauty Therapist

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Questions people ask

How do I become a Tour Guide?

Ways in include: Certificate III in Guiding; Certificate III in Tourism.

How much does a Tour Guide earn in Australia?

Median full-time pay is $74,464 a year (Jobs and Skills Australia).

Is a Tour Guide a growing career in Australia?

Yes. Employment is projected to grow 9% by 2035, from about 6,100 to about 6,700 people (Jobs and Skills Australia).

Do you need a degree to become a Tour Guide?

Not always. 36% of people in this job hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Ways in include: Certificate III in Guiding; Certificate III in Tourism.

Will AI change the work of a Tour Guide?

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