Professional Image Creators Australia

Professional Image Creators Australia (PICAUS) is Australia's peak industry body for all professional image creators - including photographers, film makers, drone operators and content creators. Run by members, for members, PICAUS fosters its vibrant community of professionals through regular social and educational events across Australia and State and National Awards. PICAUS is also driven to advance professional image creators inspiring growth and excellence through its CPD program, Code of Professional Conduct and a national ACCC certified accreditation program for professional creators.

Our History & Legacy
Founded to unify professional photographers and promote ethical practice, the AIPP roots go back to 1944. In March of that year a group of representatives of state professional photographer associations of QLD, NSW, VIC, SA and WA met in Melbourne to discuss the possibility of forming an Australian association to speak as a united voice and to represent the photographic profession throughout Australia. As a result of this inaugural meeting, which was under the chairmanship of a Mr E.L.Sharpe of Victoria., The Professional Photographers Association of Australia was formed. By 1963, this movement had members in most states and was growing. This united national body advocating for professional standards and community among professionals became The Institute of Australian Photographers with Claude McArthy from Queensland elected as the first Federal President. The name changed again to The Australian Institute of Professional Photography in the 1980's when the organisation was incorporated to be limited by guarantee.

Through its community of volunteers the AIPP continued the work of building a respected guild, setting the standard for professionalism in the visual storytelling space with unwavering commitment to excellence and integrity which spanned over 75 years. In 2021 the AIPP entered voluntary administration and then liquidation. There are many reasons for its demise, including the knock on effect of Covid pandemic lockdowns, but those reasons form new lessons to guide the association into the future.

In late 2023 prior to the completion of the winding up process the late Paul Curtis along with his friend Sheree Roberts were going to apply to the Supreme Court of Victoria to reverse the winding up process and save the AIPP. It was Paul's intention to do this however due to ongoing health issues he found he could not be part of this enormous challenge. Paul recognised Sheree would need a solid body of AIPP history and suggested she sought out someone who could help. Sheree Roberts reached out to Malcolm Mathieson to assist her, Malcolm joined, this was followed by Dale Sinnott CPA to oversee finances and Andy Nguyen for his legal knowledge assisting Sheree and Malcolm in writing of several Affidavits.

This court application was made with solid determination, commitment and without funds to engage a legal team. Yet they successfully sought to terminate the winding-up process in an unprecedented victory with the Supreme Court determining that the winding-up of the AIPP was not in the public interest.

The image creation industry has changed dramatically since the AIPP's inception. The industry research invested in by the current board of directors suggests technological advances have led to lower industry entry points, creating greater competition. Further, social media has given image creators new challenges which require adaptation to succeed. The industry research also highlights that the industry remains largely unregulated.

During the time the AIPP was in liquidation, the AIPP's software, website, domains and trademarks expired or were lost. As such, the creation of a new brand, which respects the identity and legacy of the AIPP was required. Professional Image Creators Australia (PICAUS) is the new steward of the AIPP's greatest responsibility - advancing professional image creation, for everyone. The current board of directors greatest challenge is rebuilding the association from the ground up again, staying relevant in a new, fast changing environment, while honouring the AIPP's legacy, including its past members.

Our Vision
Driven to advance professional image creators in Australia. Inspiring growth and excellence through education and community to lead visual story tellers into the future.

Our Mission
PIC AUS will foster excellence in the image creation industry through ongoing education, events and healthy competitions to equip professional creators with world class skills and inspire them through connection with elite industry leaders.

Importantly PIC AUS will strengthen and celebrate our diverse community of creators by fostering growth in the community of our members and somewhere to belong.

PIC AUS will continue to bring value to our members' by educating the general public on the importance of hiring a professional. We will strive to ensure our creators are fairly and sustainably compensated. We will also foster trust in the profession by administering clearly defined standards of professional practice and a robust Code of Ethics for all professional image creators.

PIC AUS will speak for the profession and maintain its best interest in any parliamentary, community or public action through communication and liaison with all levels of governments, educational institutions, community organisations and other associations.

PIC AUS will seek strategic collaborations and meaningful partnerships with leading organisations both nationally and internationally. We will build a forward-thinking, inclusive community that empowers emerging and established creatives alike to ensure our profession remains relevant, respected and sustainable over the long term.

PIC AUS will strive to be a professional association that all professional image creators aspire to be part of.

Sarah Mitchell - President
David Chen - Vice President
Emma Watson - Secretary
Michael Rodriguez - Treasurer
Dr. Lisa Zhang - Education Director
James Wilson - Membership Director
Prof. Anne Taylor - Accreditation Chair
Robert Young - Governance Advisor

Historical Note: The first Federal President of the Institute of Australian Photographers was Claude McArthy from Queensland.

PIC AUS operates under a transparent governance framework with an elected board of directors serving 3-year terms. Regular board meetings are held quarterly, and all governance decisions are made with member consultation and adherence to industry best practices.

Governance documents, policies, and board meeting schedules are available to financial members.

Download Constitution PDF - Updated 2025

The PIC AUS Constitution establishes the legal framework for our operations, member rights and responsibilities, accreditation standards, dispute resolution processes, and the fundamental principles that guide our organization.

Download Bylaws PDF - Updated 2025

Our bylaws provide detailed procedures for membership applications, disciplinary processes, election protocols, committee structures, and operational guidelines for all organizational functions.

Board Meeting Minutes - March 2025
Board Meeting Minutes - December 2024
Annual General Meeting Minutes - October 2024
Board Meeting Minutes - September 2024
Special Resolution Meeting - June 2024

Full meeting minutes archive available to financial members upon request.

If you are a professional image creator, working in Australia, you may be eligible to become a 'PICAUS Accredited Professional' (PICAP).

You should become a PICAUS Accredited Professional if you want to:

• Make a statement about your professional status
• Be part of the thriving PICAUS community
• Constantly learn and improve your craft
• Learn how your creative business could be more successful
• Save money by taking advantage of trade partner offers
• Assess your work with the advice of other professionals
• Work with your peers to help develop the profession
• Support the advocacy efforts of PICAUS protecting creators' rights

An Accredited Professional has demonstrated exceptional technical skill, ethical practice, business acumen, and commitment to ongoing professional development. Accreditation represents the highest recognition of professional excellence in the Australian image creation industry.

To become a PICAUS Accredited Professional you have to meet the standards we set. At a minimum:

• For the past two years have invested your time and resources into developing your creative business, and consistently earned a professional level income from your work. (We define a professional level income as an income that you believe can support and sustain your business. We do not stipulate a minimum income, nor do we stipulate that your business has to be the sole source of your income.)
• Provide documentation to support your application.
• Submit a portfolio of images to our independent folio assessment panel and reach the appropriate pass standard.
• Agree to comply with the PICAUS Code of Professional Practice.
• Agree to be bound by the PICAP Membership Terms & Conditions.
• Hold an ABN number and GST registration if your business turnover exceeds the statutory minimum.
• Hold comprehensive public liability insurance as appropriate for your business needs.
• Agree to display the PICAP Logo on your business documents.
• Agree to comply with all legal requirements and licenses required for the operation of your business.
• Agree to take part in the continual development of your business skills and craft.

Become a PICAUS Accredited Professional for $495 + a one time $100 assessment fee.

Submit Your Application →

The Value of PICAUS Accreditation
The PICAUS Code of Professional Practice is one of the key differentiators between Accredited Professionals and non-members. All membership categories of PICAUS, including non-accredited members, are bound by this code.

THE CODE OF PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

• I agree to be bound by the Constitution of Professional Image Creators Australia (PICAUS) and abide by the regulations and guidelines of PICAUS.
• I will abide by this Code of Professional Practice and recognise the authority of the PICAUS Compliance Committee.
• I shall at all times present myself and my services in such manner as will uphold and dignify my professional status and the reputation of the Institute.
• I will deal with the public with honesty and integrity, exercising reasonable skill, care and diligence.
• I will not use any marketing or competitive practice which violates any Federal or State statute.
• I shall ensure that advertisements are not such as would bring the Institute into disrepute.
• I shall ensure that only correct designatory letters are used.
• Market Related Matters: I will allow clients three working days to change an order without penalty. I will not use high pressure selling tactics. I will reveal all material facts. I will provide a complete written price list. I will fulfil all contractual obligations. I will refer clients to another qualified member if I cannot undertake the work. I will not commit acts that discredit the profession.
• I acknowledge that every client is entitled to receive a copy of this Code of Professional Practice.

Specific Terms & Conditions for Accredited Professionals

The PICAP logo has been awarded a Certification Trade Mark by the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC). It is a condition of your status as a PICAP that you display the registered trade mark logo on all your business documentation, including quotations, orders and invoices.

You agree to operate your business in accordance with all Federal, State, Regional and local governing bodies. You will ensure compliance with all copyright, environmental, staffing, and taxation laws.

You will abide by PICAUS policies regarding resignation and cancellation of membership. You must remove the PICAP logo from all materials within 21 days of termination.

You acknowledge that as a PICAP you are required to participate in the CPD program and may be asked to validate your accreditation status with a current portfolio.

General Terms & Conditions of Membership

• During the last six years you have not had proceedings instituted against you for failure to pay for the supply of goods or services.
• You have not had any complaints laid against you which have not been properly disposed of in your favour.
• Your business is not involved in the ''grey import'' of goods.
• You agree to act in an ethical and professional manner.
• You agree to be bound by the constitution of PICAUS.
• You consent to allowing PICAUS to communicate with you via email.
• You agree that PICAUS has the right to terminate your membership.
• You will not divulge confidential information.
• You will not belittle or denigrate the work or reputation of another member.
• You will not use social media to bring PICAUS into disrepute or abuse a fellow member.
• You will treat every member and employee with respect.
• You will adhere to the PICAUS Anti Bullying Policy.

PICAUS Accreditation Process

1. Submit Application - Complete online form with qualifications and professional experience
2. Documentation Review - Provide supporting documentation as outlined in eligibility requirements
3. Portfolio Review - Submit 20-30 images for expert panel assessment
4. Ethics Assessment - Complete online ethics examination (80% pass required)
5. Peer Interview - 30-minute virtual interview with current accredited professionals
6. Technical Assessment - Demonstrate proficiency in core competencies
7. Business Review - Submit business policies, insurance, and contracts for review
8. Final Approval - Accreditation Committee review and final decision
9. Accreditation Ceremony - Official induction (held quarterly)

Processing time: 6-8 weeks from complete application submission.

Accreditation Fee: $495 + one-time $100 assessment fee.

Why Use An Accredited Professional?

In this day and age, there are many people who call themselves a ''professional''. But how can you be sure?

In Australia, the imaging industry is not held accountable to the same legal status and regulatory requirements as other Government and state-regulated professions. This allows anyone to call themselves a professional, without any recourse or accountability.

PICAUS has addressed this by encouraging professional image creators to be certified through a membership pathway ultimately leading to becoming a PICAUS ACCREDITED PROFESSIONAL.

Using an Accredited Professional means:

• You are working with a professional whose status has been formally validated and recognised.
• You are working with a professional who you can trust.
• You are working with a professional whose creativity is constantly pushed and developed.
• You are working with a professional who is a member of the only nationally recognised professional imaging membership body in Australia whose accreditation program is certified by the ACCC.
• You are working with a professional who adheres to a required level of service and quality, a standard set by PICAUS.
• You are working with a professional who has been through our accreditation process.
• You are working with a professional who is bound by our Code of Professional Practice.

LOOK FOR THE LOGO and choose an ACCREDITED professional.

Find an Accredited Professional →

Browse the Accredited Professional Directory →

Search by specialty (photography, videography, digital art, drone operation, content creation), location (state or postcode), or name to find the right accredited professional for your creative needs.

There is a PICAUS Accredited Professional in every field of professional image making.

• Industry Recognition - Stand out as a certified professional with prestigious accreditation
• Professional Development - Access exclusive CPD programs, workshops, and webinars
• Networking Opportunities - Connect with industry leaders and fellow professionals
• Career Advancement - Unlock new opportunities and career pathways
• Advocacy - Have your voice heard on industry issues and standards
• Resources - Access business templates, legal guides, and technical resources
• Discounts - Save on insurance, equipment, software, and events
• Community - Become part of a thriving community of passionate image creators
• Support the Profession - Help advocate for professional image creators' rights

Student Member - $50/year
For students currently enrolled in accredited image creation programs.

Associate Member - $150/year
For emerging professionals with 1-2 years professional experience.

Professional Member - $300/year
For established professionals with 3+ years experience and portfolio review.

Fellow Member - $500/year
By invitation for distinguished contributors to the profession with 10+ years experience.

Corporate Member - $1,000/year
For studios, agencies, and organizations employing image creators.

For further information, or if you're not quite sure which membership category is best suited for you, please don't hesitate to contact our friendly admin team at info@picaus.au or book a phone call with our membership team.

• CPD Accredited Programs & Webinars (20+ hours annually)
• Mentorship Opportunities with Senior Professionals
• Member Directory Listing with SEO benefits
• Industry Event Discounts (up to 40%)
• Professional Insurance Options (exclusive member rates)
• Access to Business Templates & Legal Resources
• Voting Rights (Professional members and above)
• Annual Awards Eligibility across 6 categories
• Subscription to Industry Newsletter
• Member-only Facebook Hub Community
• Free Listing in ''Find a Professional'' Directory
• PICAUS Accredited Professional logos for display
• Video library educational resources
• Specimen contracts prepared by commercial legal representatives

Apply for Membership →

Or download application form and email to membership@picaus.org.au

Processing time: 5-7 business days. You will receive confirmation and payment instructions via email.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Program

PIC AUS requires 20 CPD points annually. Points can be earned through:

• Webinars - 2 points per hour (live or recorded)
• Live workshops - 5 points per half-day, 10 points per full day
• Conference attendance - 10 points per day
• Publishing articles - 5 points per peer-reviewed article
• Mentoring others - 5 points per mentee per year
• Advanced certification - 15 points per new certification
• Teaching - 10 points per workshop delivered
• Committee service - 5 points per committee per year

Log your CPD points → | View CPD calendar →

PIC AUS Mentoring Program

Connect experienced accredited professionals with emerging talent for career guidance, skill development, portfolio reviews, and industry insights.

Benefits for Mentees:
• One-on-one guidance from industry leaders
• Portfolio reviews and constructive feedback
• Business development advice and strategies
• Network introductions and referrals
• Career pathway planning

Benefits for Mentors:
• Earn CPD points (5 per mentee)
• Give back to the profession
• Develop leadership skills
• Recognition in annual awards

Apply to be a Mentee → | Apply to be a Mentor →

Public Resources (Free Access - No Login Required)
✓ Introductory webinar samples
✓ Industry trend reports
✓ Career guides
✓ Sample portfolio templates
✓ Ethics overview
✓ Blog articles and news
✓ Event calendar

Members-Only Resources (Requires Login)
✓ Full webinar archive (50+ hours)
✓ Business document templates
✓ Legal compliance guides
✓ Advanced technical tutorials
✓ Video library with 100+ hours
✓ Mentoring program access
✓ CPD tracking dashboard
✓ Member directory premium features

Recommendation: Keep introductory content public to attract new members while reserving premium content for members to maintain value of membership.

PIC AUS Annual Summit 2025
October 15-17, 2025 - Sydney
Theme: ''The Future of Image Creation: AI, Innovation & Ethics''

Quarterly Networking Meetups
Melbourne - July 12, 2025
Brisbane - August 20, 2025
Perth - September 8, 2025
Adelaide - November 5, 2025

Regional Workshops 2025
Lighting Masterclass - August 5 (Sydney)
Business of Photography - August 19 (Melbourne)
Video Editing Intensive - September 2 (Brisbane)
Portfolio Review Day - September 16 (Perth)
Drone Certification Prep - October 1 (Online)

View Full Calendar & Register →

2024 Annual Summit Highlights
• Keynote: ''AI in Image Creation'' - Dr. Sarah Chen
• 35 workshops attended by 450+ professionals
• Networking gala with 300+ attendees
• Awards ceremony recognizing 12 outstanding members

Past Workshop Recordings (Members Only)
Composition Masterclass (Recording)
Client Management Systems (Recording)
Drone Photography Certification Prep (Recording)

View 2024 Summit Photo Gallery →

Annual PIC AUS Image Creator Awards

Categories for 2025:
★ Professional Photographer of the Year
★ Videographer of the Year
★ Emerging Talent Award (under 30 years)
★ Commercial Image Creator Award
★ Community Impact Award
★ Innovation in Image Creation Award
★ Mentor of the Year
★ Regional Professional of the Year

Judging Criteria:
• Technical excellence (30%)
• Creativity and originality (25%)
• Professional impact (20%)
• Community contribution (15%)
• Business ethics (10%)

Nominations open: July 1 - August 31 annually
View Past Winners → | Nominate Now →

Latest Updates from PIC AUS

• March 2025: New CPD platform launched with 50+ courses
• February 2025: 500th Accredited Professional welcomed to PIC AUS
• January 2025: Updated Code of Practice released with new AI guidelines
• December 2024: 2024 Summit a record success with 450 attendees
• November 2024: New partnership with Adobe for member discounts

Subscribe to Newsletter → | View All News →

General Inquiries
Email: info@picaus.au
Phone: 1800 PIC AUS (742 287)

Membership Support
Email: membership@picaus.org.au
Phone: 1800 PIC AUS (ext. 1)

Accreditation Queries
Email: accreditation@picaus.org.au
Phone: 1800 PIC AUS (ext. 2)

Address
Level 2, 123 Creative Street
Sydney NSW 2000
Australia

Contact Form →

Member Support Centre

Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm AEST

Support Channels:
• Help Desk Portal - Submit and track tickets
• FAQ Database - Search common questions
• Report a Concern - Ethics or conduct complaints

Submit Support Ticket →