Decorator – Occupation Information

Introduction

A Decorator is a skilled professional responsible for enhancing the appearance and finish of interior and exterior spaces through painting, coating, and decorative techniques.

They work on walls, ceilings, surfaces, and architectural features to improve both aesthetics and durability.

Decorators are commonly involved in residential homes, commercial buildings, renovations, and new construction projects.

In Australia, this role requires technical skills, attention to detail, and compliance with safety and construction standards.

Types of Decorating Work

Decorators may specialise depending on the type of finishes and project requirements.

Common types include:

Residential Decorating
Commercial Decorating
Decorative Finishes and Coatings

1. Residential Decorating

Residential decorators focus on homes and small-scale renovation projects.

Residential Work Scope

Work Type	Description
Interior Painting	Painting walls, ceilings, and trims
Exterior Painting	Coating external building surfaces
Surface Preparation	Sanding, filling, and priming surfaces
Home Renovation Finishes	Updating and refreshing interior spaces

This work requires precision, colour selection, and smooth finishing techniques.

2. Commercial Decorating

Commercial decorators work on large-scale buildings and business environments.

Commercial Work Scope

Work Type	Description
Office Fit-Outs	Painting and finishing commercial interiors
Retail Spaces	Decorating shops and display areas
Public Buildings	Working on schools, hospitals, and facilities
Large-Scale Projects	Managing high-volume painting tasks

These projects require efficiency, consistency, and adherence to deadlines.

3. Decorative Finishes and Coatings

Some decorators specialise in advanced finishes and creative techniques.

Decorative Work Scope

Work Type	Description
Textured Finishes	Creating unique wall textures
Wallpaper Installation	Applying decorative wall coverings
Special Coatings	Using protective or decorative coatings
Feature Walls	Designing standout interior elements

This area requires creativity and specialised application skills.

State and Territory Licensing Authorities

Decorators may require licensing depending on project value and type of work performed.

State / Territory	Licensing Authority	Requirement
New South Wales	Building Regulator	Licence required above certain project value
Victoria	Building Authority	Registration may be required
Queensland	Building and Construction Commission	Licence required for painting work
South Australia	Consumer and Business Services	Licence required
Western Australia	Building Commission	Registration may apply
Tasmania	Building and Occupational Services	Licence required depending on scope
Australian Capital Territory	Construction Occupations Registrar	Licensing required
Northern Territory	Building Practitioners Board	Registration required

Requirements vary based on contract value and scope of work.

Training and Qualification Requirements

Decorators require practical skills in painting, surface preparation, and finishing techniques.

Primary Qualification

Qualification	Description
Certificate III in Painting and Decorating	Core trade qualification
Certificate IV (Optional)	Advanced skills and supervision roles
White Card	Required for construction site work

These qualifications provide knowledge of materials, tools, and application techniques.

Key Training Areas

Surface preparation and repair
Application of paints and coatings
Colour matching and design basics
Use of hand and power tools
Wallpaper installation techniques
Workplace safety practices

These skills ensure high-quality decorative finishes.

Industry Experience

Typical experience includes:

Working on residential or commercial projects
Assisting with painting and surface preparation
Learning use of tools and equipment
Understanding different coatings and materials

Experience improves precision and efficiency.

Compliance and Industry Regulations

Decorators must follow construction and safety standards.

Key responsibilities include:

Preparing surfaces correctly before application
Applying coatings according to specifications
Ensuring durability and finish quality
Following safety procedures
Complying with workplace regulations

Compliance and Penalties

Failure to meet standards may result in:

Fines or penalties
Rework due to poor finishing
Project delays
Licence issues (if applicable)

Where to Verify a Decorator Licence

State / Territory	Licensing Authority	Source
New South Wales	Building Regulator	https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au
Victoria	Building Authority	https://www.vba.vic.gov.au
Queensland	Building and Construction Commission	https://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au
Western Australia	Building Commission	https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au
South Australia	Consumer and Business Services	https://www.cbs.sa.gov.au
Tasmania	Building and Occupational Services	https://www.cbos.tas.gov.au
Australian Capital Territory	Construction Occupations Registrar	https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au
Northern Territory	Building Practitioners Board	https://nt.gov.au

Career Roles in Decorating

Painter and Decorator
Interior Decorator (trade-based)
Commercial Painter
Surface Finishing Specialist
Construction Worker
Site Supervisor

Experienced professionals may run their own decorating business or contracting services.

Job Outlook and Salary

Experience Level	Average Salary
Entry-Level	$55,000 – $70,000
Experienced	$70,000 – $90,000
Senior	$90,000 – $110,000+

Demand remains steady due to renovation, construction, and maintenance projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a decorator do?

A decorator prepares surfaces and applies paints, coatings, and finishes to improve appearance and protection.

Do decorators need a licence in Australia?

Yes, in many states a licence is required depending on the value and type of work.

What skills are important for decorators?

Key skills include attention to detail, colour coordination, and surface preparation techniques.

Where do decorators work?

They work on homes, commercial buildings, construction sites, and renovation projects.