3412 — Authors, writers and translators

What this occupation covers

Authors, writers and translators write, edit and evaluate literary material for publication excluding material for newspapers, magazines and other periodicals but including scripts and narrative for film, TV, radio and video games and animations; and translate spoken and written statements into different languages.

Typical duties

determines subject matter and researches as necessary by interviewing, attending public events, seeking out records, observing etc.

generates and develops creative ideas for literary material

selects material for publication, checks style, grammar and accuracy of content, arranges for any necessary revisions and checks proof copies before printing

negotiates contracts with freelance agents and with buyer on behalf of writer

writes instruction manuals and user guides, technical reports, catalogues and indexes, prepares sales literature and writes technical articles for trade journals

converts documents or spoken statements from original or source language into another language

provides communication support for the hard of hearing or the visually impaired

Entry routes and qualifications

Entry is possible with a variety of academic qualifications and/or relevant experience. Postgraduate and professional qualifications are available and are required for some occupations.

Sponsorship information

Medium Skilled. Actual duties, sponsor, applicant, salary and any transitional or shortage-list conditions must be checked.

Temporary Shortage List: Authors, writers and translators. Certificate of Sponsorship must be issued before 31 December 2026.

DBS assessment

No code-wide DBS assessment is assigned. Check actual duties, activities, workplace, frequency and jurisdiction. This code does not determine the level of check.

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