Module 12: Working as a Freelance MUA

This module is part of the CUA51020 – Diploma of Screen and Media (Specialist Makeup Services) at IMUA and serves as the capstone to your course. In this module, you will develop the professional and business skills required to operate as a freelance makeup artist within the creative industries.

You will learn how to establish and manage a freelance makeup artistry business, including legal, contractual, and operational considerations. The module covers professional documentation such as work agreements and supplier contracts, as well as strategies for negotiating variations to agreements when working with clients and collaborators.

This module also encourages reflective professional practice. You will review your work objectives in relation to quality of life, artistic direction, and commercial goals, ensuring your business practices support long-term sustainability. By the end of Module 12, you will be prepared to operate confidently and professionally as a freelance makeup artist across a range of industry contexts.

Module 12 Preview — Working as a Freelance MUA

Why This Module Matters

Freelance makeup artistry requires strong business knowledge alongside creative skill. This module equips you with the tools to operate professionally, manage client relationships, and make informed business decisions that support sustainable practice.

Establish and manage a freelance makeup artistry business.
Prepare professional contracts and agreements for clients and suppliers.
Understand legal and operational responsibilities when working independently or employing others.
Align your business objectives with your artistic, commercial, and lifestyle goals.

By the end of this module, you will have the confidence and practical knowledge to operate as a professional freelance makeup artist with clear, structured business practices that support sustainable freelance work.

As part of the Diploma, this module features assignments, written knowledge questions, portfolio development, and exclusive content designed to build your knowledge, practical skills, and professional confidence throughout the makeup artistry course.

What You’ll Learn

Freelance Makeup Business Foundations
Learn how to establish a freelance business, including naming, legal considerations, and core operational requirements.
Professional Agreements & Contracts
Explore how to create work agreements for client bookings, negotiate contract variations, and establish supplier contracts.
Business Operations & Compliance
Understand invoicing, taxation, insurance, record-keeping, and key requirements for operating a freelance business in Australia.
Professional Portfolio Development
Learn how to curate and present a professional portfolio that supports your freelance practice and attracts clients.
Reflective Professional Practice
Review your work objectives against quality of life, artistic direction, and commercial goals to support long-term sustainability.

What You’ll Do

Establish Freelance Business Foundations
Develop the foundational elements of a freelance makeup artistry business using an industry-aligned checklist.
Prepare Professional Documentation
Create work agreements for client bookings and contracts for suppliers, demonstrating professional business practice.
Apply Core Business Processes
Apply essential business processes, including invoicing, insurance, and compliance requirements effectively.
Build and Present a Portfolio
Build and present a professional portfolio that reflects your skills, experience, and creative direction clearly.
Evaluate Professional Goals
Review and evaluate your professional objectives, balancing artistic, commercial, and lifestyle considerations.

Units Covered

This module integrates practical skills from the following accredited units:

CUAIND512 – Enhance professional practice using creative arts industry knowledge
CUAIND412 – Provide freelance services
CUAPPR411 – Realise a creative project
CUAMUP513 – Design and apply special make-up effects
BSBESB402 – Establish legal and risk management requirements of new business ventures
CUADES412 – Interpret and respond to a design brief
BSBCRT413 – Collaborate in creative processes

These units are taught through practical tasks, interactive tutorials, visual references, carefully selected external links, and hands-on assignments, ensuring you develop both your analytical and creative abilities. Our modules combine high-quality images, diagrams and theoretical content in an easy-to-digest format.

Please note: The above list is not indicative of unit completion; most of our units are taught (in parts) across multiple modules.

Module Topics

In Module 12, we will cover the following topics and beyond:

Introduction
Establishing a Successful Makeup Business
Setting up Your Business
Requirements for Working From a Business Premises and Employing Workers in Australia
How to Get Clients
Checklist for Establishing a Makeup Artistry Business
Tips for Working in Specific Industry Sectors
Wedding
How to Create a Work Agreement for Client Bookings

Fashion
Television
Theatre
Working as an Assistant
How to Negotiate Contract or Agreement Variations When Working as a Freelances MUA
How to Create a Contract with a Supplier of Goods or Services for Your New Business
How to Review Your Work Objectives Measured Against Quality of Life, Artistic & Commercial Goals

Module Outcomes

By completing Module 12, you will be able to:

Establish and manage the foundations of a freelance makeup artistry business.
Build, present, and maintain a professional digital portfolio.
Apply core business practices, including invoicing, taxation, insurance, and compliance requirements.
Prepare and negotiate professional agreements with clients and suppliers.
Develop client acquisition strategies across weddings, fashion, film, theatre, and media industries.
Evaluate professional goals in relation to artistic direction, commercial viability, and quality of life.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

Our tutors will support you in translating your artistry into a career. From reviewing your portfolio to answering questions about business practices, they’ll ensure you’re prepared to succeed as a freelance MUA.