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How to Become a Commentator: Australian Careers in Public Relations

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What is a Commentator?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Commentator?

A commentator delivers live commentary at sports events, broadcasts, and other live productions. They describe the action, offer expert analysis, and keep audiences engaged. In Australia, commentators work across radio, TV, and online streaming.

Before each broadcast, they research the event. They check player and team stats, prepare scripts, and plan key talking points. During the event, they think fast, speak clearly, and adapt to whatever happens.

Most commentators work closely with producers, co-commentators, and technical crews. Entry into the field often starts with community radio, local sports, or volunteer work. A portfolio of recordings is key to landing paid work.

Demand for commentators is growing with the rise of digital streaming and online sports coverage. Many work on a freelance basis across a range of sports or formats. This career suits people who love live events and perform well under pressure.

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Career snapshots For Commentators

Commentating is a growing media career in Australia. Commentators work across radio, television, online streaming, and live events. Most roles fall within the Arts and Recreation Services and Information Media sectors (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025).

The average salary for related commentary roles is about $97,000 per year (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). This is around $1,866 per week. Entry-level pay starts at around $55,000 per year.

Future demand for commentators is rated as strong (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). Growth in digital streaming and online sports platforms is creating new roles. Larger employers typically expect formal qualifications in media or communications.

What will I do?

A commentator is the voice audiences rely on to make sense of live events. They combine research and quick thinking to deliver broadcasts that inform and entertain. Their work spans sport, news, entertainment, and digital platforms.

  • Researching events: reviewing team and player stats, recent results, and background before each broadcast.
  • Preparing scripts: creating outlines and key talking points to guide the commentary.
  • Live commentary: describing the action, covering key moments, and keeping energy high through the broadcast.
  • Interviewing: speaking with players, coaches, or experts before, during, or after events.
  • Working with production teams: coordinating with producers, directors, and technical staff for a smooth broadcast.
  • Post-event review: looking back at footage and performance to improve future commentary.
  • Staying current: keeping up with rule changes, player moves, and industry news.

What skills do I need?

A commentator needs strong speaking skills above all else. They must speak clearly, vary their pace, and hold their audience for the full length of a broadcast. The ability to match the energy of a live event is key.

Deep knowledge of the topic is just as vital as delivery. Sport commentators need to know the rules, key players, and history of the event. Those covering news or entertainment must stay on top of fast-moving stories.

Good research skills, the ability to work under pressure, and strong teamwork complete the core skill set. Commentators also need to adapt fast, as live events rarely go to plan. These skills take time, practice, and regular feedback to build.

Skills/attributes

  • Clear verbal communication
  • Deep knowledge of the subject or sport
  • Quick thinking and real-time reaction
  • Storytelling and audience engagement
  • Research and preparation skills
  • Composure under pressure
  • Confidence on microphone or camera
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Adaptability across formats and platforms
  • Attention to detail and accuracy
  • Strong listening skills
  • Professionalism and media ethics

CourseFinder makes every effort to ensure the information we provide is correct at the time of publication. We welcome your input to help keep our career profiles as accurate and up to date as possible. All queries and feedback will be taken into consideration as we conduct periodic reviews of our content. Add your voice to the conversation!

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.