If your kid dreams of becoming a star of the stage or screen, finding the right representation can help open doors. But when it comes to becoming a child actor or a child model, landing an agent isn’t just about booking acting jobs and auditions – it’s also about ensuring that your child is supported, protected, and enjoys the experience.
As a parent, guardian, or teacher, your role is to advocate for your child and help them navigate the industry safely. A reputable agent can be a valuable part of that support network, helping young performers access opportunities while managing the professional side of the business.
If you’re wondering how to get an acting agent for your child or teen, here’s a step-by-step guide to finding representation in Australia.
JUMP TO
- 1. Decide whether your child is ready.
- 2. Build some experience and training.
- 3. Create basic professional materials.
- 4. Research reputable acting agents for kids.
- 5. Watch for red flags.
- 6. Submit professionally.
- 7. Consider using casting platforms.
- 8. Evaluate the relationship carefully.
- Final thoughts on finding a child acting agent
Before you start researching acting agents for kids, ask yourself a simple question: Does your child actually want to act professionally?
The entertainment industry can be exciting, but it also requires commitment. Auditions may happen during school hours, self-tapes can require preparation at short notice, and rejection is a normal part of the process.
Your child doesn’t necessarily need professional credits before approaching an agent, but they should demonstrate a genuine interest in performing and have realistic expectations about the industry. Also, bear in mind that as a parent or guardian, you’ll also need to be prepared to help manage auditions, transport, schedules, and communication with agents and casting professionals.
Some agencies accept complete beginners, but having a little experience can strengthen an application.
That doesn’t mean your child needs a lengthy résumé. School productions, youth theatre programmes, acting classes, drama clubs, student films, and community theatre can all help them develop skills and confidence.
Training also helps children determine whether acting is something they genuinely enjoy before they pursue representation.
When agents review submissions, they typically want to see a few key materials:
- A recent, natural-looking headshot
- A short acting résumé (if applicable)
- A self-tape or showreel (if available)
- Contact details for a parent or guardian
Don’t panic if your child doesn’t have professional credits or an extensive showreel. Many children’s agencies are open to emerging talent and understand that young performers are still building experience.
The most important thing is presenting an accurate picture of your child. Avoid heavily edited photos or exaggerated résumés.
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Not all agencies operate the same way. Australia has relatively few agencies that exclusively represent children. Instead, many respected agencies represent both adults and young performers while maintaining dedicated children’s divisions.
When researching agencies, look for:
- Professional websites and clear submission guidelines
- A roster that includes performers in your child’s age range
- Evidence of clients working in screen, theatre, or commercial projects
- Positive industry reputation
- Good reviews from existing or previous clients
- Clear communication and transparent business practices
Australia’s leading acting agencies for children
There are many agencies that represent young performers, but the following are among the best-known agencies that work with children and teenagers across Australia.
CP Management
Location: Sydney (with national and international reach, including UK and US ties)
Specialties: Formerly known as Catherine Poulton Management, CP Management is one of Australia’s most respected talent agencies, representing both established actors and emerging young performers. It’s particularly well known for film and television representation, as well as mainstage theatre productions.
Notable clients/alumni: The agency's broader roster includes high-profile Australian actors such as Angourie Rice (Mean Girls, Finding Emily), Alyla Browne (Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga), Emily Browning (Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events), Levi Miller (Red Dog, A Wrinkle In Time), and Olivia DeJonge (Elvis, The Narrow Road to the Deep North).
Bubblegum Casting
Location: Melbourne (with offices and representation across Sydney, Brisbane, and other major cities)
Specialties: Acting, modelling, television commercials, film, television, and theatre for babies, children, and teens. The agency has specialised in young talent since 1981.
Notable clients/alumni: Bubblegum’s clients have appeared in Neighbours and projects from Warner Bros., Marvel, and Disney, as well as major musical theatre productions and campaigns for major brands such as Nike.
Munchkins Talent Agency
Location: National agency with offices in Melbourne and Sydney and representation across Australia
Specialties: Babies, children, tweens, and teens working in film, television, musical theatre, modelling, and commercial campaigns. The agency has been operating since 1990.
Notable clients/alumni: Munchkins regularly books talent across major national musical theatre productions, television, and campaigns for major retailers and brands including Mattel, Fisher Price, Qantas, David Jones, Kmart, and more.
Spunkz Management
Location: Melbourne-based with representation across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast
Specialties: Child actors, models, performers, extras, and multicultural talent. The agency places a strong emphasis on child safety and diversity.
Notable clients/alumni: Talent represented by the agency has appeared on television shows such as Neighbours and House Husbands, as well as projects for Netflix, Stan, Target, Coles, Toyota, NAB, and Cotton On.
T&E Kids
Location: Sydney-based (with national reach)
Specialties: Screen actors, commercial performers, and young talent from childhood through to the teen years. The agency is widely regarded as one of Australia’s leading boutique agencies for child actors.
Notable clients/alumni: Former and current clients have appeared in productions for Netflix, ABC Kids, and Disney, as well as feature films and national campaigns for brands such as Optus, Big W, Acer, and more.
IWM Next Gen
Location: Melbourne-based (with national reach)
Specialties: Formerly known as Centrestage Agency, IWM Next Gen is the youth division of IWM Talent Management, representing children and teenagers for television, film, theatre, and commercial work.
Notable clients/alumni: The agency has represented young talent for a range of work, including major movies that have filmed in Australia such as Anaconda, Barracuda, Better Man, and Bring Her Back, as well as major theatre productions such as Annie and The Book of Mormon.
Note: Agency rosters change regularly, and a famous client isn’t necessarily a sign that an agency is the right fit for your child. Focus on finding representation that aligns with your child’s goals, age, location, and experience level.
One of the most important responsibilities parents and guardians have is protecting their child from casting scams and exploitative operators.
A legitimate acting agent earns money when their clients book work. In most cases, agencies should not charge up-front representation fees. Industry guidance also warns parents to be cautious of agencies that require expensive mandatory packages, workshops, or photo shoots before representation can begin.
Be cautious if an agency:
- Guarantees work or fame
- Pressures you to sign immediately
- Charges substantial up-front fees for representation (i.e., more than minor administrative costs)
- Requires you to use specific photographers or services
- Is vague about commission structures or contracts
Remember that no agent can guarantee auditions or bookings. Their role is to advocate for your child and submit them for suitable opportunities, but casting decisions ultimately rest with producers and casting directors.
Before submitting, take time to visit each agency’s website and read its submission guidelines carefully. Some agencies welcome applications from newcomers, while others prefer children with training or professional credits. Tailoring your submission to each agency demonstrates professionalism and helps ensure that your child’s application receives proper consideration.
Most agencies also provide submission instructions on their websites. Read these carefully and follow them exactly. Some agencies request email submissions, while others use online application forms. A typical submission includes:
- A brief introduction
- Recent photographs
- A résumé (if applicable)
- Any performance footage or self-tapes
Keep your email concise and professional. Agents review a high volume of applications, so clear communication goes a long way. If an agency is interested, they may request a meeting, audition, or additional materials before offering representation.
Representation isn’t always the first step. Many young performers build experience through casting platforms that advertise child acting opportunities, student productions, commercials, and independent projects before signing with an agent.
Auditioning for age-appropriate projects can help your child gain credits, develop confidence, and create material for future agency submissions.
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Getting an offer of representation is exciting, but don’t rush into an agreement.
The best agent for your child isn’t necessarily from the biggest agency. Instead, look for someone who communicates clearly, understands the needs of young performers, and treats both your child and your family with respect.
Many successful child actors work with boutique agencies that provide personalised attention and strong industry relationships.
Ask questions about:
- Communication expectations
- Commission rates
- Submission processes
- Audition requirements
- How they support child performers and their families
Most importantly, ensure that your child feels comfortable. A good agent should encourage a positive and sustainable experience, not create unnecessary pressure.
Figuring out how to find acting agents for kids can feel overwhelming at first, but the process is often simpler than many parents expect.
Focus on helping your child develop their skills, gain experience, and enjoy performing. Research agencies carefully, avoid anyone making unrealistic promises, and remember that your duty of care as a parent or guardian always comes first.
A reputable agent can become a valuable partner in your child’s acting journey, but the goal should never be fame at any cost. The best outcomes happen when young performers are supported, protected, and given the opportunity to grow both professionally and personally.