How Much Does an Interior Designer Earn in Australia?

In the vibrant and constantly evolving world of interior design, Australia has emerged as a hub of creativity and innovation, fuelled by a booming real estate sector and a renewed interest in personalised living spaces. For aspiring designers eager to carve out a niche in this exciting field, understanding the interior designer salaries in Australia can provide clarity around expectations and help guide negotiations during job interviews. This guide aims to demystify the potential earnings and career growth opportunities available in this dynamic industry, helping you chart a path towards a rewarding career and becoming a successful interior designer.

The Landscape of Interior Designer Salaries

As you kickstart your career in interior design in Australia, it's reassuring to note the encouraging trends in growing salaries. In recent years, there has been a noticeable upward trend, with designers being compensated more generously for as they gain experience in both general and specialised areas of interior design.

Annual Salary Outlook

Here's a snapshot of the annual salary outlook in various Australian cities:

• Interior Designer Salary Sydney (New South Wales):
Given the high demand for luxury and commercial spaces, designers in NSW can expect salaries ranging from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, with an average salary of $88,385 in Sydney.
• Interior Designer Salary Melbourne (Victoria):
Fueled by a vibrant arts and design ecosystem, the average annual earnings in Victoria are between $80,000 and $90,000, with the average salary in Melbourne sitting at $84,046.
• Interior Designer Salary Brisbane (Queensland):
Catering to a blend of modern and classic designs, the salary scale in Queensland moves between $70,000 and $85,000, with the average salary in Brisbane sitting at $84,800.
• Interior Designer Salary Perth (Western Australia):
In the midst of rapid urban growth, interior designers in Perth average $91,642, with the rest of the state offering salary potentials from $50,000 to $80,000 per annum.
• Interior Designer Salary Canberra (Australian Capital Territory):
With a blend of government and private sector projects, designers can anticipate annual salaries from $70,000 to $90,000 in Canberra.
• Interior Designer Salary Darwin (Northern Territory):
The city, enriched with a blend of artistic influences, provides average yearly earnings between $75,000 and $90,000.
• Interior Designer Salary Hobart (Tasmania): A city witnessing urban growth, the annual salary in Tasmania ranges between $75,000 and $90,000.

What Factors Influence an Interior Designer's Salary and Earning Potential?

To build a successful career in the design industry, several key elements are essential:

• Strong educational background: Having a certification in interior design not only facilitates access to high-quality opportunities but also acts as a foundation for higher earnings. Credentials from reputable institutions like The Interior Design Institute can bolster your credibility in the eyes of clients and employers.
• Specialisations and experience: Acquiring expertise and focusing on niche areas can greatly enhance your earning potential and the demand for your services. Interior designers with specialised credentials and skills in sustainable and tech-integrated designs are increasingly being sought after, further pushing up the earning potential in the field.
• Choosing the right work arrangement: Whether it's securing a steady income in a well-established firm, freelancing by the hour, or taking on independent projects, the work arrangement you opt for can have a considerable impact on your earnings.

Choosing Your Interior Design Career Path in Australia

Are you passionate about interior design and contemplating your future in the field? One of the crucial decisions you'll face is whether to pursue a freelance career, start your own business, or join an established design firm or construction company. Each path offers distinct advantages and considerations, and understanding the differences can help you make an informed choice that aligns with your goals.

Freelance/Self-Employed Interior Designer:

• Freedom and Flexibility: As a self-employed interior designer, you're your own boss. You have the creative freedom to choose your projects, set your rates, and design your work schedule. This level of autonomy can be incredibly empowering.
• Diverse Projects: Freelancers or small design studios often work on a variety of projects, from residential to commercial, allowing them to explore different design niches and expand their portfolios.
• Client Relationships: Building strong relationships with clients is paramount for freelancers or self-employed designers. You'll have the opportunity to work closely with your clients to understand their specific needs and deliver personalised design solutions.
• Income Variability: While freelancers and small businesses can potentially earn more for high-profile projects, income can fluctuate. It's essential to manage finances and plan for periods of lower income.

Employed Interior Designer:

Steady Income: Working for an established business typically provides a stable monthly income, ensuring financial security.

• Structured Environment: Established design firms or construction companies offer structured work environments with established processes, team collaboration, and access to resources that can aid in project execution.
• Learning Opportunities: Joining an established team often means learning from experienced designers and exposure to a wide range of projects, which can be invaluable for skill development.
• Less Administrative Burden: You won't have to manage the administrative aspects of running a business, such as marketing, billing, or client acquisition, as these are handled by the firm.

Ultimately, the choice between freelancing, starting your own business, and working for an established business depends on your personality, career aspirations, and lifestyle preferences. Some designers find success and fulfillment in the freedom of being self-employed, while others thrive in the structured environment of an established firm.

Interior Designer Career Growth Opportunities

As designers progress in their careers, a wealth of opportunities await, offering roles with not only increased responsibilities but also significantly higher earnings:

• Senior Designer: Generally involves overseeing design projects, working closely with clients to bring their visions to life. At this stage, designers can expect a substantial increase in their earnings compared to entry-level positions.
• Project Manager: This role necessitates a fine balance between creative vision and project management skills, ensuring that design projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Design Director: At this pinnacle, a design director guides the creative strategy of large projects or even entire firms, commanding the highest salary brackets in the industry.

How to Increase Your Interior Designer Salary in Australia

However, securing a promising position is just the beginning. It remains the responsibility of the professional to continually adapt and grow with the trends in the industry through:

• Crafting a Dynamic Portfolio: Building a portfolio that not only showcases your strongest works but also tells a compelling story of your skills and aesthetic can be a critical advantage in the competitive interior design landscape.
• Strategic Networking: Establishing robust connections in the industry is invaluable. Fostering relationships with industry peers can open doors to unparalleled opportunities and foster collaborations that can elevate your career to new heights.
• Commitment to Continuing Education: Regular participation in webinars and workshops is more than a learning experience; it showcases your dedication to staying at the forefront of industry trends and enhancing your professional skill set, adding a remarkable dimension to your career profile.
• Professional Accreditation: Obtaining accreditation from respected industry organisations can boost your credibility and attract clients who prioritise accredited professionals.
• Cultivating a Digital Presence: In the digital age, a strong online presence is a must. Creating a professional website to showcase your portfolio and expertise, and engage actively on social media platforms can lead to increased visibility and more lucrative career opportunities.

Interior Design Course Student Success Stories

For most of Alexandra’s life, art and design was just a hobby until she decided to study with us after completing high school. In 2016, after she successfully completed our course, she went on to land a role at Artifex Interiors, where she is able to combine her passion for interiors and client management.

"An amazing experience! This comprehensive Diploma has a great balance of theory and practical assignments. I was challenged with every module and encouraged through practice and research. The online support through your tutor, student support and the Facebook group is second to none. If you are new to studying or getting back into it after many years, you have nothing to worry about. Networking with students all around the world gave international perspective and knowledge. The IDI online platform is user friendly and the college go above and beyond to expose their students to other resources, software discounts and jobs. Hitting the submit button on my last assignment was an emotional moment. Thank you IDI!"

Alexandra Marshall
@alexandrabydesign

Having previously worked as an Aerospace Engineer, Justine made a bold decision to pursue her lifelong fascination with interior design and forge a career in this field. Since completing our course, Justine has experienced remarkable success. Not only has she launched a successful business called Rainbow Shaker, she has also showcased her talent as a contestant on the renowned television show, ‘The Big Interiors Battle’, where she competed against other aspiring designers. Reflecting on her training with us, Justine expresses her utmost satisfaction, describing it as an amazing experience.

"The training was amazing! The course quality and my tutor’s advice were top-notch. I learnt so much and I am now confident enough to start my own business in interior design. Thank you!"

Justine Guillermou
@rainbow.shaker

After completing of our course, Kelly embarked on her entrepreneurial journey and established 13 Interiors, her own interior design business. Since its inception, 13 Interiors has thrived and expanded into a physical studio, catering to clients across the country. As the business has grown, Kelly has built a talented team, and their exceptional projects frequently grace the pages of numerous national publications. Drawing on her diverse sector experience and the skills acquired through our course, Kelly now operates a thriving studio while providing mentoring sessions for aspiring designers. In addition, she actively engages with the design and styling community by delivering workshops and demonstrations on a regular basis. Kelly’s expertise and success in the industry make her an influential figure, inspiring others and sharing her valuable insights.

"I found this course to be completely practical, inspiring and most importantly exactly what you need to know when starting out your journey in the design industry. To the highly skilled tutors, easy to navigate online assignment submissions and the outstanding support and design community, I really can’t recommend this course enough."

Kelly Donougher
@13interiors

Discover Online Interior Design Courses with The Interior Design Institute

The interior design landscape in Australia offers a rich tapestry of opportunities for both emerging and established designers. With dedication, continuous learning, and strategic career moves, a highly rewarding career is well within reach in this vibrant and dynamic field.

Whether you're starting afresh or building upon your existing skills, The Interior Design Institute's online courses offer a transformative learning experience. Delve deep into the intricacies of space design, mentored by seasoned professionals and supported by a thriving community of design enthusiasts.

Discover where your passion for interior design can take you. Explore our courses or get in touch today and let us help you take the next step towards your dream career.