Graphic design is now a multimedia industry incorporating video, animation and photography, but it seems the biggest growth area for graduate employment is in the new technology fields such as designing Web pages and interactive programs. Design graduates are also found in communications and marketing related fields such as corporate public relations, advertising, television and film design and direction, fashion and textile design and in information design such as newspaper and magazine layout, signage and environmental design. Jacqueline Gothe, a senior lecturer in design at UTS, says new technology has transformed the visual communications industry. There are a lot of developments we dont fully understand the implications of, but we are working with it and enjoying it. So the opportunity for the individual to manage new technology and integrate it into a changing environment is vast.
Young people aiming to get a break in journalism today face a tough battle.
Fairfaxs Sydney publications took on 19 recruits for a one-year traineeship this year, but there were thousands of applicants. TV journalists often earn more. Those determined to persevere with creative writing need a high level of self belief, says Jos Borghino, the executive director of the Australian Society of Authors. Even on publication, the financial rewards are limited. It really heartens me that so many of our young writers are now being published overseas and are no longer just considered as Australian writers.