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CourseFinder helps you discover and enroll in top courses from Australia’s leading providers, making it easy to kick-start or continue your career journey.
Follow Us
© 2026 CourseFinder Australia Pty Ltd, All Rights Reserved
Beauty Therapy
Beauty therapy is a well-established, hands-on career built on skill and genuine care for clients. Around 44,300 people currently work as beauty therapists across Australia, and the workforce stays strongly female. Jobs and Skills Australia reports that women make up 98% of workers in the role. Daily tasks span skin checks, facials, waxing, makeup and body treatments. Each task needs a steady hand and clear talk with clients.
Demand for these services keeps rising as more Australians spend on self-care and grooming. Jobs and Skills Australia expects around 2,500 new jobs to open each year, a solid pace for a hands-on trade. Most beauty therapists work in salons, spas and clinics, and many build lasting ties with regular clients. About 53% of the workforce works part-time, which suits the flexible shifts common across the sector.
Most people start with a Certificate III, which covers core skills such as waxing, tinting and client talk. From there, some move on to diploma-level study, adding advanced facial work, salon skills and business basics. Training runs through Australia’s national skills framework, so graduates hold a real, portable qualification.
Full-time, part-time and blended study modes make it realistic to train while working or raising a family. Base pay for beauty therapists sits near $27.81 an hour under the Hair and Beauty Industry Award, effective from July 2026. Many practitioners earn more through tips and commissions on top of base pay. Some states offer subsidised places for eligible students, and government-funded course options can cut upfront costs by a good margin. With steady demand and a clear training path, beauty therapy stays an accessible route into hands-on, client-focused work.
Beauty therapists perform services such as facials, skin and body treatments, waxing and cosmetic treatments. They work in salons, spas and wellness centres, helping clients feel confident through professional care and sound skincare advice.
Yes. Around 44,300 people work in the role nationally. Jobs and Skills Australia projects annual employment growth of roughly 2,500 workers as demand for personal care services keeps rising.
Technical expertise, strong communication and attention to detail all matter. Courses also build customer service and hygiene practices, giving graduates the practical and interpersonal skills needed for long-term success.
A Certificate III covers core treatment skills like waxing, tinting and client communication. A diploma builds on this with advanced facial treatments, business operations and sometimes electrotherapy or specialised techniques. Your choice depends on your career goals.
Many states offer subsidised places or payment plans for eligible students. Government-funded course options are available in some circumstances, so check current eligibility before you enrol.
A career in beauty therapy can lead to real jobs you'll enjoy. Here are some roles you could pursue.
