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How to Become a Hairdresser: Australian Careers in Hairdressing

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What is a Hairdresser?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Hairdresser?

A hairdresser cuts, styles, colours, and treats hair for clients in salons across Australia. They use skill and hands-on know-how to help people look and feel their best.

Each day, hairdressers talk with clients to find out their hair goals. They advise on styles and treatments that suit each person’s hair type, face shape, and lifestyle. They also manage bookings, keep their station clean, and track client records.

Most hairdressers complete a Certificate III in Hairdressing (SHB30416) through a three-year apprenticeship. This hands-on training builds skills in cutting, colouring, chemical work, and customer service. Some start with a Certificate II in Salon Assistant (SHB20116) before moving to the full course.

The hairdressing trade offers steady demand across Australia. Hairdressers work in salons, barber shops, and mobile setups, or run their own business. Skilled workers can move into salon management, teaching, or specialty styling roles.

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Career snapshots For Hairdressers

There are around 66,800 hairdressers employed in Australia, with most working in salon settings (Your Career, 2024). About 52% work full-time. The workforce is 77% female, and the median age is 38.

Average weekly earnings are $1,121, or roughly $58,300 a year (Your Career, 2024). Future demand is rated as stable. The number of jobs is expected to hold steady over the next five years.

Most hairdressers enter through a three-year apprenticeship. Salons are the main employer, though some work in hotels, cruise ships, or as mobile stylists. Career growth can lead to salon management or self-employment.

What will I do?

Hairdressers provide a range of services every day, from cuts and colours to treatments and styling advice. They play a key part in how clients feel about themselves. Customer service is just as important as technical skill.

  • Consultation: talking through hair goals, preferences, and any sensitivities with each client before a service.
  • Hair cutting: using scissors, clippers, and razors to create the desired length and shape.
  • Hair colouring: applying colour, highlights, and bleach using safe techniques.
  • Chemical treatments: applying straightening, perming, or keratin treatments.
  • Styling: using blow dryers, straighteners, and irons to create finished looks.
  • Scalp treatments: suggesting and applying products to help scalp conditions.
  • Product advice: guiding clients on the right products for their hair type.
  • Salon hygiene: cleaning and sterilising tools, stations, and equipment.
  • Client records: keeping notes on colour formulas, treatments, and preferences.
  • Trend awareness: keeping up with new techniques, products, and industry news.

What skills do I need?

Hairdressers need a mix of technical skill, creativity, and people skills to do their job well. The technical side covers cutting, colouring, and chemical work. The people side covers listening, advising, and making clients feel at ease.

Most hairdressers build these skills through a Certificate III in Hairdressing (SHB30416), done via a three-year apprenticeship. Strong talking skills, managing time, and attention to detail are vital in a busy salon. A want to keep learning is also key, as trends and techniques change often.

Skills/attributes

  • Cutting and styling techniques
  • Colour formulation and application
  • Chemical treatment knowledge
  • Creative flair and artistic vision
  • Client consultation and active listening
  • Product knowledge and retail advice
  • Attention to detail
  • Time management in a salon environment
  • Physical stamina for standing long hours
  • Hygiene and infection control practices
  • Problem-solving and adaptability
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.