How Modeling is Different Overseas from Australia: Agency representation & Booking Work and Income Potential & Pay

Agency Representation and Booking Work

Australia:

• Fewer Top-Tier International Agencies: Australia has some strong modeling agencies (such as Chadwick Models, IMG Australia, and Priscilla’s Models), but many models still need to relocate to global cities like New York or London to secure higher-profile work. Many models start in Australia, building a portfolio, and then work internationally to access bigger campaigns and runway shows.

• Strong Local Relationships: In Australia, models often work closely with local agencies and clients, and the industry is built on maintaining personal relationships. It’s common for models to be scouted in more organic settings like local shows, advertisements, and even influencer campaigns on platforms like Instagram.

Overseas:

• Global Representation: Models working internationally typically sign with top-tier global agencies that have offices in multiple cities. Leading agencies like Elite Models, Wilhelmina, and Ford Models have vast networks and are able to book top-tier clients, from high-fashion runway shows to commercial campaigns.

• Booking Work Internationally: In major cities like New York, Paris, and Milan, models can expect to be booked for international campaigns and runway shows, which often involve greater travel and the potential for high-profile jobs. Agencies in these cities have the connections and global reach that local agencies in Australia may lack.

Income Potential and Pay Scale

Australia:

• Commercial Work Pays Well Locally: In Australia, commercial modeling for retail brands, lifestyle campaigns, and advertising work is often the most lucrative. Models may also earn more money through collaborations with local influencers, fashion labels, and Instagram marketing.

• Limited High-Fashion Opportunities: Though the pay for editorial or runway shows in Australia can be decent, it typically doesn’t compare to the major international markets, where high-fashion runway shows for designers like Gucci or Prada offer significant paydays.

Overseas:

• Higher Pay for Top-Tier Work: In global cities, high-fashion work, particularly for runway shows, editorial shoots, and large brand campaigns, can bring significantly higher pay, especially for models who make it to top-tier agencies. Some of the world’s most successful models, like Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, and Bella Hadid, are able to command large salaries due to their extensive portfolios, runway experience, and global presence.

• Longer Hours, Higher Demand: While the pay can be substantially higher, the hours and demands in major international cities can be intense. Models may be required to work for long hours, often with very little rest, particularly during Fashion Week seasons.