Hairdresser

Hairdressing is a fulfilling profession that combines creativity, personal connection, and skill development, providing the opportunity to express artistic vision through unique hairstyles and colours while forming meaningful relationships with clients who often regard their stylist as a trusted confidant.

The diverse skill set required, along with the immediate gratification of seeing a client’s transformation, makes the job satisfying, and the flexibility to work in various settings enhances work-life balance.

As you gain experience, you can advance into specialised areas or even open your own salon, all while positively impacting your community by boosting clients’ confidence and self-esteem.

Becoming a hairdresser

To become a hairdresser in South Australia, you must enrol and gain a Certificate III in Hairdressing, which is the standard qualification required to work in the industry. This course covers essential skills such as cutting, colouring, and styling hair and is offered at various registered training organisations.

You can train as a hairdresser through an apprenticeship pathway, which means you enter into a contract of training with an employer who can train you on the job, or you can receive off-the-job training at a Registered Training Organisation.

You may prefer to study for your Certificate III in Hairdressing through an institutional pathway with a Registered Training Organisation.

While studying, you'll need to gain practical experience in a salon environment, which is crucial for developing your skills and understanding the daily tasks of a hairdresser.

In South Australia, you are required to have a hairdressing qualification. This involves meeting specific industry requirements and ensuring compliance with local regulations. 

To be a hairdresser, seek employment opportunities in hairdressing salons. Starting as an apprentice or junior hairdresser can provide valuable on-the-job training and help you build your skills and client base.

Joining professional associations, such as SAHBA, can help you network with other professionals, access resources, and stay informed about industry standards and developments.

By following these steps, you can establish a successful career as a hairdresser in South Australia, continually advancing your skills and expanding your professional opportunities.

Qualifications

Pathways from school:

Further Study:

  • Certificate IV in Hairdressing

  • Diploma of Salon Management

  • Bachelor of Business

I’m a hairdresser, what do I need to know?

To stay competitive and continually enhance your skills as a hairdresser, engage in ongoing professional development by attending workshops, seminars, and industry events. Staying updated with the latest trends and techniques in hairdressing is crucial. Consider further qualifications, such as a Certificate IV in Hairdressing, to specialise in areas of interest and advance your career.

Creating a comprehensive portfolio is essential for showcasing your skills to potential employers or clients. Include before-and-after photos, client testimonials, and examples of different styles and techniques you have mastered. This will help demonstrate your expertise and attract new opportunities.

Participating in hairdressing competitions can significantly boost your visibility and reputation. These events allow you to showcase your creativity and technical skills on a larger platform, gain recognition, and open doors to new career opportunities.

Exploring editorial work is another valuable avenue. Collaborating on editorial shoots or with fashion magazines can elevate your profile and provide a platform to demonstrate your skills in high-profile settings. This type of work can help build your reputation within the industry and connect you with influential professionals.

Since you have technical skills but are looking to build management skills, pursuing a Diploma in Salon Management will be beneficial. This qualification will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to manage a salon effectively, including business operations, staff management, customer service, and financial management. It will help you transition from a technical role into a leadership position within the industry.

Attending events such as Hair Expo in Australia and internationally will provide valuable networking opportunities and insights into the latest industry trends. Travelling overseas to learn from industry high achievers can offer fresh perspectives and advanced techniques, further enhancing your skills and professional growth.

Focusing on these areas can help you continue to grow in your career as a hairdresser. You can refine your technical skills, gain the management expertise needed for leadership roles, and expand your professional reach through competitions, editorial work, and global industry events.

Career advancement for hairdressers

Develop expertise by gaining in-depth knowledge of hair products and techniques. Work with various brands and stay updated on industry innovations. Establish connections with product companies and industry leaders by attending events and expos. Gain teaching skills through additional training, such as a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, which will enable you to design and deliver effective training programs. Create a strong portfolio that showcases your skills, including past teaching experiences, client results, and any certifications or endorsements from product companies.

To develop your own product line, start by conducting market research to understand gaps in the current offerings and identify consumer needs. Partner with chemists, manufacturers, and designers to create high-quality products that meet industry standards. Build a strong brand identity, including packaging, marketing materials, and an online presence. Focus on quality and unique selling points to differentiate your products. Ensure your products comply with local and international regulations, including obtaining certifications and conducting safety tests.

Entering sales and marketing involves leveraging your industry knowledge and experience to craft compelling marketing messages and strategies for hair products. Gain skills in sales and marketing through relevant courses or certifications to understand market dynamics and develop effective promotional strategies. Build relationships with key players in the beauty industry to gain insights and access opportunities in sales and marketing.

Specialise in vocational education by obtaining relevant qualifications, such as the Diploma of Vocational Education and Training. Develop comprehensive training programs that align with industry standards and address the needs of students and professionals. Collaborate with vocational training organisations and schools to offer your expertise and help shape the industry's future.

To become an industry speaker or coach, build your reputation through workshops, seminars, and speaking engagements. Share your knowledge and insights on industry trends and techniques. Develop a coaching program or mentorship service to guide other professionals and aspiring hairdressers in their careers. Market yourself by utilising social media, professional networks, and industry events to promote your speaking and coaching services. Build a solid personal brand that reflects your expertise and passion.

Focusing on these areas can expand your career as a hairdresser, moving into roles such as educator, product developer, sales and marketing specialist, and industry speaker or coach. Each of these paths offers opportunities for professional growth and the ability to influence the industry meaningfully.

INDUSTRY ICON

JOE COTRONEO
Hairdresser
Director, Zink the element of hair

“Celebrating 40 years in hairdressing this year, my passion for all things hair started by attending the Australian live hairdressing competitions … Training and practicing 4 nights a week for my first competition to make sure my skills would lead to success. Winning 1st place in styling got me hookedI

I have won over 50 awards including Apprentice of the Year, Hairdresser of the Year, Australian Salon of the Year, Loreal style and Colour Trophy.

The most important lesson learnt was that education is key to success – this has lead to my appointment as Artistic Ambassador for Loreal Professionnel in 1989, a role I still hold today enabling me to share my knowledge in Australia and overseas, working on photo shoots and backstage at Paris and Melbourne fashion weeks, and sharing my knowledge through workshops.

Business success came in 2007 With the opening of Zink the Element of Hair with wife Suzi and business partner Anna at Norwood. Now the greatest compliment is that I have my 2 daughters Maria and Caterina join the business.

Nurturing and Mentoring young hairdressing talent is vital for the continuing success of the salon group now employing over 35 stylists.

In my spare time you’ll find me at the footy barracking for Port Adelaide, cooking up a storm of Italian or Thai food for family and friends and occasionally fishing.

Thank you SAHABA for you continuing support of the hair and beauty industry,”

Frequently Asked Questions about hairdressing…

  • To become a professional hairdresser, you must complete a Certificate III in Hairdressing (SHB30416), including theory and hands-on experience. To gain this qualification in South Australia you can complete an apprenticeship or study full time at a Registered Training Provider. To find out who delivers this qualification please visit our  SAHBA Industry Partners Clip Joint Education and Hair & Beauty Courses | TAFE SA

  • It typically takes 12  to 42 months to complete a Certificate III in Hairdressing (SHB30416), depending on whether you're studying full-time, part-time, or as an apprentice.

  • Under the Hair and Beauty Industry Award 2020 An employer must pay graduates at least 92.5% of the standard rate of a Level 3  hairdresser who holds a Certificate III in Hairdressing

  • Yes Hairdressers  are covered under the Hair and Beauty Industry Award 2020

    In this award hair and beauty industry means carrying out or performing any of the following activities:

    (a) hair cutting, hairdressing, hair trimming, hair curling, hair waving, shampooing, hair working, hair dyeing; or

    (b) shaving, beard trimming, or

    (c) any other process or treatment of the hair, head or face carried out or performed in a hairdressing salon, including the sharpening or setting of razors; or

    (d) wig-making; or

    (e) facial or body waxing; or

    (f) face or head massaging; or

    (g) eyebrow waxing, eyebrow tinting, eyebrow arching, eyelash tinting; or

    (h) body hair removal including waxing chemical methods, electrolysis and laser hair removal; or

    (i) manicures, pedicures, nail enhancement and nail artistry techniques; or

    (j) make-up application, skin analysis, development of treatment plans, facial treatments including massage and other specialised treatments such as lymphatic drainage; or

    (k) high frequency body treatments including full body massage and other specialised treatments using machinery and other cosmetic applications and techniques; or

    (l) aromatherapy and the application of aromatic plant oils for beauty treatments; or

    (m) using various types of electrical equipment for both body and facial treatments.

  • Schedule A — Classification Structure and Definitions

    A.1   Hair and beauty employee level 1 means a receptionist or salon assistant.

    A.2  Hair and beauty employee level 2 means:

    (a)  a make-up artist who holds a Certificate II in make-up services (or equivalent);

    (b)  a nail technician who holds a Certificate II in Nail Technology (or equivalent); or

    (c) an unqualified beautician or cosmetologist.

    A.3 Hair and beauty employee level 3 means:

    (a) a beautician who holds a Certificate III in Beauty Services (or equivalent); or

    (b) a hairdresser who holds a Certificate III in Hairdressing (or equivalent).

    A.4 Hair and beauty employee level 4 means a beauty therapist who holds a Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy (or equivalent).

    A.5 Hair and beauty employee level 5 means:

    (a) a hairdresser who holds a Certificate IV (or equivalent); or

    (b) a trichologist who is a hairdresser and holds a Certificate IV in Trichology (or equivalent).

    A.6 Hair and beauty employee level 6 means a beauty therapist who holds a Diploma in Beauty Therapy (or equivalent).

  • Hairdressing and Barbering are legislated in South Australia and are covered under the Hairdressers Act 1988 | South Australian Legislation and Hairdressers Regulations 2016 | South Australian Legislation.

     To work as a hairdresser or barber in South Australia you MUST hold the following qualifications or equivalent.

    The definition of prescribed qualifications in section 4 of the Act, the following are declared as prescribed qualifications:

    (a) Certificate III in Hairdressing (SHB30416) from the SHB Hairdressing and Beauty Services Training Package, endorsed on 21 March 2016; or

    (b)     Certificate III in Barbering (SHB30516)from the same training package, endorsed on 21 March 2016; or

    (c) For individuals with qualifications declared under revoked regulations before these regulations commenced—those qualifications remain valid; or

    (d) For individuals who had started but not completed units of competency under the revoked regulations before these regulations commenced—a certificate evidencing the successful completion of those units after the new regulations commenced.

  • There are two ways to have your skills recognised in South Australia

    Recognition of Prior Learning by applying to a registered training provider who delivers the qualification you can apply for RPL in Certificate III in Hairdressing (SHB30416)  or Certificate III in Barbering (SHB30516).

    Secondly under the Hairdressers Act 1988 | South Australian Legislation.

    4A—Recognition by Commissioner of a qualified person

     (1) The Commissioner may, on application under this section, determine that the applicant has qualifications, training or experience that the Commissioner considers appropriate to carry on the practice of hairdressing.

    (2) An application must be made in the manner and form approved by the Commissioner.

     (3) For the purposes of making a determination on an application under this section, the Commissioner may require that—

    (a) records or information be provided by the applicant in support of the application; and

    (b) all or any part of the application, or any supporting records or information, be verified by statutory declaration.

    The South Australian Skills Commission  is excited to announce that applications will soon open for people looking to have their experience recognised in relation to a particular trade or vocation.

    The trade recognition process is for people living in South Australia who have been working in trades or declared vocations, who have not obtained a trade or vocation qualification under a training contract. Please visit this link for the complete list of eligible trades and vocations: Traineeship and Apprenticeship Pathway Schedule.

    If you are interested in applying, please email traderecognition@sa.gov.au and we will provide you with information about the application process and evidence required. This will ensure you’re ready to apply when applications open.

    For further information, please call us on 1800 006 488 or Recognition of trade or vocation - South Australian Skills Commission.

  • Essential skills for a hairdresser include:

    • Creativity: Designing new styles and keeping up with trends.

    • Communication: Understanding client preferences and offering advice.

    • Attention to detail: Precision in cutting, coloring, and styling.

    • Technical skills: Mastery of hairdressing techniques and tools.

  • You do not need a licence to operate in South Australia but you do need to hold the prescribed qualification as penalties apply, while others may only require certification.

    Under the Hairdressers Act 1988 | South Australian Legislation:

    5—Hairdresser must be qualified

    (1) An unqualified person who carries on the practice of hairdressing for fee or reward is guilty of an offence.

    Penalty:

    For a first offence—$1 000.

    For a second or subsequent offence—$4 000.

    (2) A person who employs an unqualified person to carry on the practice of hairdressing is guilty of an offence.

    Penalty:

    For a first offence—$1 000.

    For a second or subsequent offence—$4 000.

    (3) This section does not prevent the employment by a qualified person of a person who is undertaking an apprenticeship in hairdressing.

  • The salary for hairdressers varies depending on experience, location, and whether you’re employed or self-employed. On average, hairdressers can earn between $50,00 to $60,000 per year, but this can increase significantly for those with a strong clientele or working in high-end salons.

  • Hairdressers often work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate clients’ schedules. Full-time hairdressers typically work 35–40 hours per week, while part-time or freelance hairdressers have more varied hours.

  • Hairdressers can progress their careers by:

    • Becoming a Senior Stylist or Salon Manager.

    • Opening their own salon.

    • Specialising in areas like precision cutting, coloring, or hair extensions.

    • Teaching or becoming a hairdressing educator.

    • Working in fashion, film, or theatre as a session stylist.

  • Common challenges include:

    • Maintaining a clientele: Building and retaining a loyal customer base.

    • Physical demands: Standing for long hours and repetitive motion can cause fatigue.

    • Staying updated: Keeping up with the latest techniques, styles, and product knowledge is essential to staying competitive.

  • Yes, hairdressers can specialise in areas such as colouring, cutting, bridal styling, or even men’s grooming. Additional training and certification may be required to develop expertise in these areas.

  • Yes, if you plan to open or manage a salon, business skills such as marketing, budgeting, and staff management are crucial. Many hairdressers pursue additional training, such as a Diploma of Salon Management SHB50216 to gain these skills.

  • Building a loyal clientele requires a combination of exceptional service, consistent quality, and effective marketing. Referrals, social media presence, and customer retention programs can help expand your client base.

  • Absolutely. The hairdressing industry is constantly evolving, with new trends, products, and techniques emerging regularly. Attending workshops, courses, and industry events helps keep your skills up to date and ensures you stay competitive.

So you want to be a hairdresser?

Use these downloadable quizzes to see what kind of problem-solving you'll do day-to-day as an Australian Apprentice. Each quiz was developed with the help of industry, TAFE and the secondary school sector. They are not a formal assessment.

Become a SAHBA member to access more great hairdressing resources such as these: