Role overview
The ANZSCO 639111 Model occupation encompasses professionals who promote products, services, or brands through visual presentation. In Australia, models typically work across fashion, advertising, and commercial sectors, presenting clothing, accessories, or other merchandise in photographic, video, or live settings. This classification is part of the Sales Workers major group, reflecting the occupation's commercial purpose in supporting product promotion and marketing efforts.
ANZSCO classifications are maintained by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and continue to be used for statistical purposes, migration assessments, and labour market analysis despite some occupational descriptions being outdated. The Model classification provides a standardized framework for categorizing this work across Australian administrative systems.
Key tasks in practice
While ANZSCO does not provide specific task descriptions for this occupation, models in Australia typically perform duties including:
- Posing for photographers, artists, or cameras to display clothing, products, or concepts
- Walking runways or appearing at live events to demonstrate fashion items
- Participating in commercial advertising campaigns across various media formats
- Working with stylists, photographers, and directors to achieve desired visual outcomes
- Maintaining physical appearance and conditioning as required for specific modeling assignments
Actual responsibilities may vary significantly depending on the modeling specialty, from fashion and runway to commercial, promotional, or fit modeling.
Skill level explanation
ANZSCO classifies Model occupations at Skill Level 5, which the Australian Bureau of Statistics defines as requiring a skill level commensurate with:
- AQF Certificate I or II, or
- Secondary education
In practical terms, this classification indicates that formal educational requirements are minimal, though specific modeling work often requires specialized physical attributes, presentation skills, and industry knowledge gained through experience. The skill level classification reflects entry pathways rather than the full range of professional competencies needed for success in this field.
Industry context
Models in Australia typically work within industries classified under these ANZSIC codes:
- 5220 - Retail Trade (particularly fashion retail and department stores)
- 6962 - Creative and Performing Arts Activities
- 3800 - Advertising Services
- 8220 - Fashion Design
Employment arrangements vary widely, with many models working as independent contractors through agencies rather than as permanent employees. The work settings range from photography studios and fashion runways to retail environments, trade shows, and commercial filming locations. This classification helps government agencies track employment patterns across these diverse industry contexts.