While some lucky ladies do get discovered on the street or at the mall, you can’t rely on chance if you want to kick off your modelling career. You need to put yourself out there to find work – and the best way to do it is by signing with a model or talent management agency.
If modelling is your dream, there’s no better time to start than now. Read on for our full guide to modelling agencies in Australia and beyond – including a list of our favourite modelling agencies in Melbourne and Sydney!
RELATED: All Of Your Favourite Victoria’s Secret Models
How Do Modelling Agencies Work?
To work in the fashion industry as a model, you’ll most likely have to sign with an agency. Agencies will represent you when making deals with advertising agencies, designers, brands, and other clients. They also usually assist in training you, booking you shoots, and putting together your portfolio or photo card.
With a modelling agency, you don’t have to worry about finding new clients – you’ll have access to the agency’s network, and they’re responsible for getting you jobs. This allows you to focus on your modelling and work with bigger names.

What Do Modelling Agencies Look For?
Modelling agencies are always looking for fresh new talent, but the industry is cutthroat. You’ll need to meet the ‘minimum requirements’ set by the agency to even be considered. Of course, there are different requirements for different ‘divisions’ – the requirements for a male straight-size model would be very different from the requirements for a plus-size female model or a kid model.
Generally, modelling agencies are looking for people who fit their ‘profile’ for the division – in most cases, especially for women, this means being tall, thin, and beautiful. But the modelling industry in 2019 is a lot more inclusive than it used to be, and there are niches for all kinds of beauty. You can see if an agency is a good fit for you if their signed models look similar to you!
There are different kinds of modelling – commercial, fashion, glamour, runway, etc. You can specialise in one kind, but you’d be a lot more versatile (and therefore more marketable) if you are skilled in several different kinds.
Finally, agencies are also looking for people with confidence, professionalism, talent, and good energy. Even though the fashion world puts a lot of emphasis on physical appearance, your personality is what will set you apart from the millions of other aspiring models fighting for the same spot.

Alternative Modelling Opportunities
Traditional ‘straight-size’ couture or commercial modelling isn’t for everyone. Here are some other divisions you could get your start in!
- Baby/kids modelling: for young children up to the age of 12
- Teenage modelling: for boys and girls aged 13-17
- Plus size modelling: for people bigger than a US size 12
- Australian Aboriginal modelling: for models who come from an indigenous Australian background
Tips On How To Become A Model In Australia
- Understand which category of modelling will be your main priority, and play up your strengths! Instead of struggling with a division that you don’t quite fit in, embrace the things that make you unique.
- Post regularly on social media. New models are being discovered on Instagram every day, plus it’s great practice for poses.
- Get test shots done by a professional photographer so that you have something to show at auditions and casting calls.
- Go to as many castings and open calls as possible. Agencies will regularly hold these to find new talent, and the more you go, the more chances you have of getting picked up.
- Do your due diligence before signing with an agency. Reputable agencies usually won’t ask you for joining fees, so avoid those at all costs. Also, read reviews from other models to ensure that the agency takes care of their talent!
The Best Modelling Agencies In Australia
Royalle Modelling
Where: Sydney
Chadwick Models
Where: Sydney, Melbourne, Perth
Vivien’s Models
Where: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth
Bella Management
Where: Sydney
Wink Models
Where: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide
The Top Modelling Agencies In The World
Elite Model Management
Where: New York, Paris, Milan, London, etc.
Famous models: Cindy Crawford, Gisele Bundchen, Tyra Banks, Coco Rocha, Adriana Lima
IMG Models
Where: New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris, Milan, Sydney
Famous models: Hailey Bieber, Kate Moss, Cara Delevingne, Gigi Hadid, Ashley Graham
Ford Models
Where: New York
Famous models: Kelly Gale, Andreja Pejic, Radhika Nair, Justine Biticon
Wilhelmina Models
Where: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago
Famous models: Robyn Lawley, Kendall Jenner, Gia Caranagi
Next Management
Where: New York, London, Los Angeles, Miami, Milan, Paris
Famous models: Erika Linder, Lineisy Montero
Work It
Modelling agencies in Sydney, Adelaide, and more are always on the lookout – so take a chance and sign up! You never know, you might be the next famous face of the fashion world.
RELATED: These 7 Japanese Models Are Making Waves In The Fashion World