Hair and Makeup Artist Courses
A Hair and Makeup Artist creates specific looks for performers in film, TV, and theatre, adapting techniques for various productions.
AI Exposure
Low

Core skills such as social intelligence and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Hair and Makeup Artist
Get qualified to work as a Hair and Makeup Artist with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
SHB30221
Duration
3 weeks - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Traineeship
Do you love make-up and cosmetics? With the nationally recognised SHB30221 Certificate III in Make-Up you could become a specialist make-up artist and work in beauty salons, day spas, or even film and TV. The course delivers specialist skills in creative make-up design for events, special occasions and photography, but you can also choose electives that will broaden your service offerings. Options include: spray tanning, waxing, recommending and selling beauty products, lash and brow treatments, creating ...
Career opportunities
Duration
3 weeks - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Traineeship
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CUA51020
Duration
8 months - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus
The Diploma of Screen and Media (Specialist Make-up Services) is designed to equip students with the skills and techniques essential for all facets of professional makeup artistry including screen and media, theatre, fashion and bridal. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical training, this diploma prepares aspiring make-up artists to excel in creating captivating looks which includes the use of wigs, hairstyling and prosthetics. Enquire now to find a course provider near you.
Career opportunities
Duration
8 months - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus
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SHBHDES005
The SHBHDES005 Select and Apply Hair Extensions unit covers the skills and knowledge needed to consult with clients, assess hair and facial features, and apply hair extensions to enhance length, volume, or colour. It involves selecting and attaching full or partial extensions made from human, animal, or synthetic hair. Suitable for experienced hairdressers in salons or session styling, this unit requires professional judgement to manage client services and ensure quality results. Enquire now for a full li...
Career opportunities
CUA60620
Estimated fee
From $19,500
Explore the artistry and technical skills required for the entertainment industry with the Advanced Diploma in Screen and Media (Specialist Make-Up Services). This comprehensive program equips students with advanced makeup techniques and industry knowledge, preparing them to excel in film, television, and theatrical productions.
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $19,500
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Hair and Makeup Artist.
Common questions

How much does a Hair and Makeup Artist earn?
In Australia, a full time Hair and Makeup Artist generally earns $1,350 per week ($70,200 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

What are the job opportunities for a Hair and Makeup Artist?
This industry has experienced strong growth in employment numbers over the last five years. There are currently 16,800 people working in this industry in Australia and many of them specialise as a Hair and Makeup Artist. Hair and Makeup Artists may find work in all regions of Australia, particularly larger towns and cities.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

How do I become a Hair and Makeup Artist?
A Certificate IV in Screen and Media (Specialist Make-Up Services) is an ideal qualification if you’re planning a career as a Hair and Makeup Artist. This course covers a range of topics including styling hair for productions, creating classic long hair up styles, designing remedial camouflage makeup, applying makeup for photographs, designing creative makeup, applying airbrush makeup and removing makeup.
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Choose from a range of accredited Hair and Beauty courses offered by nationally recognised providers that will prepare you with practical skills and knowledge to land that next dream job.
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Courses for every level and standard, from short courses to diploma qualifications and higher. Find the qualification to suit you, and turn your passion for hair, nails and beauty into a profession.
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Become a professional hairdresser or barber or gain the skills to run a thriving salon with an accredited qualification in Australia.
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More information
A Hair and Makeup Artist uses their skills to create particular looks for performers in film, television and theatre productions. You might style hair to suit a character and use specialist make up techniques to create performance looks. Hair and Makeup Artists might style performers for live or recorded events or you might prepare clients for photographic shoots.
Hair and Makeup Artists should have strong technical skills and be able to adapt their skills to suit a range of productions. You’ll need to have strong attention to detail and be able to recreate looks for the performers you work with. Hair and Makeup Artists should be able to follow instructions and work with production briefs. You may have to work irregular hours in this role.
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