About Us | Academy of Makeup – Australia’s Pro Makeup Artistry School

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Why Choose the Academy of Makeup

The Academy of Makeup is a nationally recognised and ASQA-accredited Registered Training Organisation (RTO) in Australia, providing professional makeup training for over 20 years. Since opening our doors in 1999, we’ve helped more than 8,150 students start careers in TV, editorial, bridal, film, fashion, special effects, and retail makeup artistry.

Our graduates have gone on to work with major names like Channel 9, MAC Cosmetics, Mecca, Disney Australia, and on productions for Netflix, Foxtel, and independent film festivals across the country.

We are a member of the Australian Council for Private Education and Training and we have association with and membership of many other industry organisations such as the Hair & Beauty Industry Association.

Whether you’re just starting out or switching careers, we’re here to help you gain the confidence, skills, and connections to thrive in the makeup industry.

 

 


What Makes Us Australia's Leading Makeup School

Our Founder, David McConnell, a well known Makeup Artist and Hair Stylist, started the Academy by teaching personalised one-on-one training classes for fashion stylists, up-and-coming Makeup Artists and beauty professionals. Being a professional Hair and Makeup Artist himself, David knew what was important for up-and-coming Artists to learn. He also knew exactly what the industry wanted and would demand of them and so he developed an amazing course, to ensure that they would be nothing but the very best Makeup Artist when they graduated. Today, David is still the owner of the Academy of Makeup and has a very active involvement in the development of the school’s curriculum.

 

Learn From Real Industry Experts

Our trainers aren’t just educators. They’re active working professionals in the beauty, film, TV, fashion, film and bridal sectors.

You’ll be learning from Pro Artists with incredible experience, such as:

  • TV Makeup Artists from Channel 9, the ABC, Channel 7 and Sky News
  • Special Effects artists who've worked on Kong:Skull Island, Mad Max, Pirates of the Caribbean, Unbroken, Thor
  • Renowned Bridal specialists with a six-month+ waitlists
  • Industry mentors with 10–20 years of experience on set and in studios

 

Build Skills That Get You Hired

Our Diploma and Certificate courses are packed with real-world techniques you’ll actually use, including:

  • Airbrush makeup for HD bridal, editorial, bridal and broadcast
  • Prosthetics and SPFX including wounds, ageing, and bald cap application
  • Period hair and makeup from the 1920s through to 2000s
  • Freelance business setup, kit building, and client consultations
  • Studio lighting, on-set etiquette, and continuity for screen work.

 

Proven Graduate Success

  • 8,000+ graduates across Australia
  • Access to our Work Experience Program (100 hours of practical experience)
  • Real-world job outcomes in TV, film, salons, content shoots, bridal businesses, and more
  • Internal editorial shoots and creative portfolio days to showcase your work

“I was working on set before I even graduated — thanks to the Academy’s connections.” – Diploma Graduate, 2023

 

Flexible Study Options That Fit Your Life

You can study makeup your way, wherever you live and whatever your lifestyle. We offer:

  • On-campus training in Melbourne, Brisbane, and Sydney
  • Online or blended study options with weekly trainer contact and a user friendly student portal
  • Livestreamed demos, hands-on practical classes, and open campus days for additional support
  • Access to our private online learning hub and trainer feedback on uploaded work

 

VET Student Loans are available for eligible students.

 

Training That Goes Beyond the Classroom

Innovation

  • One of the first RTOs to deliver a Diploma of Screen & Media entirely online
  • Regular curriculum updates to match current trends, techniques, and tools
  • Built-in assessments that simulate real production briefs

 

Ethics & Sustainability

  • Cruelty-free product policy across all courses
  • Kits feature Australian-owned beauty brands
  • Focus on sustainable, skin-friendly, and Pro-quality products

 

Community That Supports You

  • 4.9/5 average satisfaction rating
  • Ongoing access to our Community Hub for peer support, tips, and feedback
  • Alumni network that hires, refers, and collaborates with new graduates

 

Start Your Journey With Us Today

If you’re dreaming of a future in makeup artistry, we’re here to help you make it real.

Whether you want to work behind the scenes in TV and film, become a go-to bridal artist, or build your own freelance brand, we’ll give you the tools, confidence, and support to get there.