Is It Really That Hard To Make It In Australian Acting?

Question:Alright I'm 14, attend training, do shortcourses, have a quality agent AND I've actually been in productions. What I don't know is if you can really make a living off being an Australian Actor. I'm going to New York this january to pursue American work because everyone knows the States is the place to pick off a job to perform and entertain in front of a crowd and still earn a living. I'd just like to know if there are any contacts in New York you guys would know? ex agents - actors - directors. you know at the moment all i really need is an insight to the business so i can finally start a run at it for real. if you know any what to do's dont's in the industry then please share and elaborate. i'm just a young teen who's going to charge at this head on but right now i'm lacking direction. ANY advice or help would be great. thanks

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Alright I'm 14, attend training, do shortcourses, have a quality agent AND I've actually been in productions. What I don't know is if you can really make a living off being an Australian Actor. I'm going to New York this january to pursue American work because everyone knows the States is the place to pick off a job to perform and entertain in front of a crowd and still earn a living. I'd just like to know if there are any contacts in New York you guys would know? ex agents - actors - directors. you know at the moment all i really need is an insight to the business so i can finally start a run at it for real. if you know any what to do's dont's in the industry then please share and elaborate. i'm just a young teen who's going to charge at this head on but right now i'm lacking direction. ANY advice or help would be great. thanks

There is always entertainment work to get in the US but making a living on it is a different matter. Any range of talent can work doing something but you have to be REALLY REALLY REALLY good at what you do to actually be able to support yourself on it. Good luck!

Apparently not, all you have to do is start out on "Neighbours". As long as you look good, no acting ability is required.

It can't be that hard - look at the quality of the talent in "Home and Away"!!

Not if you're an Australian!

It's pretty difficult because there aren't so many opportunities available for Australian actors. But if you do manage to get one of those coveted opportunities and some good roles in a nice Aussie film or TV series then you definitely have a shot at making a living or even going over to do some work in the US/UK. If you've got an agent then you're going great.

If you want contacts overseas then ask your agent, or get a manager or something. Most agents have agents/managers they know in the US and they can often help their clients get representation overseas.

I don't think so, it should be the same as in any other countries, start in a soap opera as an extra then build up. Plus, it doesn't matter as you can always move abroad/go abroad to seek acting oppurtunities there, in places like England, and America. I have heard that Australia gets lots of imports from other countries, but they make their fair share of TV shows, as any other country does.

ok sleep with directors agents anybody to get you there....KIDDIN!!...lol......Im not saying lie...just elaborate on your experience....be confident but not a pain in the butt...oops pardon the pun...your agent should know the course to take...that why they get paid...keep on at them...show them your serious...good luck..xx