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A Gaffer works on film, television and stage sets to manage the lighting aspects of a production. You’ll lead a team of lighting technicians and operate lighting equipment such as spotlights or floodlights. Depending on the production, you might also use specialised lighting equipment for outdoor scenes. Gaffers may design a lighting plan for a project or collaborate with directors to provide lighting features for particular scenes.
Gaffers need to be skilled technicians and should have strong leadership skills. You’ll need to be able to keep to a production schedule and work well as part of a production team. Gaffers need excellent attention to detail and should be able to focus for long periods of time. It’s important that you can communicate well and follow directions.
There are 3 courses available for people who want to become a Gaffer.
Possible job outcomes:
Get started in film and TV with the CUA60620 Advanced Diploma of Screen and Media. This nationally recognised diploma delivers advanced skills in film making, screen writing and film acting. You’ll learn to make the transition from stage and theatre performance to acting in front of a camera, and graduate with a working knowledge of how feature films are written and produced. Enquire now for upcoming enrolment dates and intake opportunities..
Average duration: 12 months.
Learn how to install and operate basic lighting on live film, TV, and theatre sets with the CUA30420 Certificate III in Live Production and Technical Services (Lighting). This nationally recognised qualification prepares you for work in the creative arts industry, and includes a number of WHS permits and licences (rigging, dogging, construction industry white card). Competencies include: installing and testing lighting equipment, operating follow spots, operating floor electrics, following a lighting plan, using automated lighting, identifying lighting cables and components, positioning lights on rigging points, understanding the lighting desk, and much more. Enquire now for the full list of study units, lighting crew career outcomes, and the latest course openings..
Average duration: 24 months.
Get the skills you need to join a production crew for film, TV or theatre with the CUA30420 Certificate III in Live Production and Technical Services. This nationally recognised qualification will help you plan a career in the creative arts industry, participating in collaborative projects and working in a live production environment. You’ll gain technical skills in live production and have opportunities to pursue your own creative expression. The course allows you to specialise in sound, vision, costume, lighting, scenery and props, or staging. Enquire now for the full list of study units, specialisation areas (and their availability) as well as active course dates..
In Australia, a full time Gaffer generally earns $1,150 per week ($59,800 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
This industry has seen stable employment growth over the last five years. This is a profession that employs a small number of people and there are currently 900 Gaffers working in Australia. Gaffers may find work in larger towns and cities where productions are based.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
If a career as a Gaffer interests you, consider enrolling in an Advanced Diploma of Screen and Media. This course will develop your skills in film making, television projects and stage productions.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within film, tv and production. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Film, TV and Production
Props Assistant
$960 weekly pay
Wardrobe Assistant
Assistant Editor
$1,150 weekly pay
Audio Visual Technician
Broadcast Technician
Camera Assistant
Cinematographer
$1,250 weekly pay
Digital Content Creator
Digital Producer
Foreign Correspondent
Gaffer
Grip
Lighting Designer
Lighting Technician
Production Assistant
Stage Manager
Stage Technician
$1,050 weekly pay
Studio Executive
Television Producer
Theatre Technician
Videographer
Visual Technician
Broadcast Production Manager
$1,350 weekly pay
Broadcaster
$1,500 weekly pay
Casting Agent
$1,888 weekly pay
Content Creator
$1,400 weekly pay
Director of Photography
Film and TV Production Manager
Film Director
Film Editor
Film Producer
Podcaster
$1,340 weekly pay
Radio Broadcaster
Radio Producer
Screenplay Writer
$1,300 weekly pay
Sound Engineer
Theatre Director
Video Producer
$2,212 weekly pay
Video Production Manager
Learn more about Gaffer courses in your area.