Australia; production locations vary
Exquisite Management
Dedicated extras registration requests sizes, three photographs and your own transport to set.
AUSTRALIA · JOB GUIDE
Film and TV extra jobs in Australia
Appear in the background of films, television and adverts. No acting qualification is normally needed, but casting depends on the production’s brief and your availability for full filming days.
Illustrative photo
This could suit you if…
You are flexible, follow direction well and would enjoy occasional work on a production.
The trade-offs
Casting is unpredictable and filming can involve long waits and repeated takes. Database registration does not provide reliable weekly income.
What does the work involve?
Extras appear in the background of scenes and repeat actions as directed. A day can include substantial waiting, costume checks and multiple takes of a short sequence.
Continuity matters: you may need to repeat the same movement without drawing attention away from the scene.
Can I rely on extras work to pay rent?
Treat it as occasional income until you have confirmed bookings. Joining a casting database does not reserve work: productions choose people for a particular brief and date. Keep another income plan if your rent depends on regular weekly hours.
Can I fit a shoot around another shift?
Keep the full requested day available. Waiting, repeated takes and changes to the production schedule can extend the day. The call location may be away from public transport, and your agent needs accurate photos, measurements and availability to submit you for suitable briefs.
What do I need before applying?
Casting depends on a production’s brief and your availability. Follow instructions on current photographs, measurements and practical skills accurately.
Confirm work-rights requirements with the production or representative.
Which training is worth doing?
No course assumed for background work
Background work does not normally require an acting qualification. Casting instructions matter more: appearance, availability, wardrobe and following directions on set. Acting classes are optional skills development.
Companies and application routes
Find employers and recruitment contacts below.
Sydney
iSpry Talent Agency
Commission-only extras agency with a free signup route and no joining fee stated. Its background division asks for weekday availability and reliable travel around Sydney.
How do I put together a good application?
Use a dedicated extras registration route or an official casting notice. Keep photographs current and list useful skills honestly.
Ask about agency fees, commission, exclusivity and payment timing before signing. Check that the contact and booking instructions come from the agency’s verified channel.
How much does it pay?
Casual background work has different minimum rates for adverts, feature films and other screen content. These published award rates make the distinction clear.
| Role / shift | Hourly pay |
|---|---|
| Extra — advertising production | $44.94 |
| Extra — feature film | $40.31 |
| Extra / stand-in double — other content | $36.69 |
Broadcasting, Recorded Entertainment and Cinemas Award, clause 13.8(a), effective 1 July 2026. These are casual hourly engagement rates, before tax and excluding super, with a minimum four-hour call; do not add another casual loading.
Screen work can also be booked on daily or weekly terms. An agency commission, where applicable, reduces what reaches you; these figures are the award wage before such deductions.
Sources and further reading
Exquisite Management recruitment
iSpry Talent Agency recruitment
No course assumed for background work
Fair Work: find the applicable award
Sources checked 17 October 2026.