How to become a Translator

Transfers a source text from one language into another, usually within an extended time frame to allow for corrections and modifications, without the presence of the participants requiring the transfer.

Main tasks

• Studies original texts and transcripts of recorded spoken material to comprehend the subject matter
• Accurately renders the meaning and feeling of written material from one language into another using the appropriate register and style
• Edits computer-translated text and uses online translation and computer-assisted translation tools
• Creates translation memories for use in computer-assisted translation tools
• Edits, proofreads and localises texts with a multilingual perspective

Ways in

• TAFE and VET: Advanced Diploma of Interpreting (PSP60922); Diploma of Interpreting (PSP50922); Advanced Diploma of Translating (PSP60822); Diploma of Translating (PSP50822)

Pay · Outlook · AI and this job

• Typical full-time pay: $109,876 a year
• About 15,800 people work in this job group now, and about 19,200 are projected by 2035. (+21.2%)
• AI is likely to change parts of this job. Jobs and Skills Australia rates its automation exposure as medium.

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• Interpreter
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• Family Violence Practitioner
• Community Development Officer
• Community Support Worker

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Questions people ask

How do I become a Translator?

Ways in include: Advanced Diploma of Interpreting; Diploma of Interpreting.

How much does a Translator earn in Australia?

Median full-time pay is $109,876 a year (Jobs and Skills Australia).

Is a Translator a growing career in Australia?

Yes. Employment is projected to grow 21% by 2035, from about 15,800 to about 19,200 people (Jobs and Skills Australia).

Do you need a degree to become a Translator?

Usually. 82% of people in this job hold a bachelor's degree or higher.

Will AI change the work of a Translator?

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