Hairdresser Courses
Hairdressers style and treat hair through cutting, colouring, and various treatments, while managing appointments and selling products.
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 Hairdresser
Get qualified to work as a Hairdresser with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
SHB30416
Duration
8 months - 4 years
Study mode
Apprenticeship, Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
The Certificate III in Hairdressing (SHB30416) is the minimum qualification for professional hairdressers in Australia. Through practical training, you will learn how to wash, cut, style, and treat both men’s and women’s hair — as well as work in a contemporary salon. This extensive course covers: hair colours, lightening, braiding, bleaching and other chemical treatments.
Enquire now for the list of study units and the next intake dates.
Career opportunities
Duration
8 months - 4 years
Study mode
Apprenticeship, Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
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SHB40216
Duration
5 months - 16 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus
Are you a qualified hairdresser and ready to level-up your cutting and colouring technique? Try the Certificate SHB40216 IV in Hairdressing. This nationally recognised training course is completed over 6 months and introduces the latest hairdressing trends (and techniques) in freehand clipping, chemical reformation, creative colouring and lightening. The course also covers makeup services, product sales, and salon leadership.
Enquire now for the full list of study units and upcoming enrolment dates.
Career opportunities
Duration
5 months - 16 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...
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SHBHDES004
The SHBHDES004 Create Classic Long Hair-Up Styles unit equips individuals with the skills to design, recommend, and complete a range of classic and modern hair designs using hot tools. It is ideal for industry entrants, make-up artists, apprentices, and experienced hairdressers or barbers. This unit covers client consultation, hair and facial analysis, and styling techniques, including blow-drying, using thermal tools, and creating up-styles like braids, twists, classic rolls, and chignons.
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Hairdresser.
Common questions
How much do Hairdressers earn?
In Australia, a full time Hairdresser generally earns $1,346 per week ($69,992 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 can you expect a higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
What are the job opportunities for Hairdressers?
Opportunities for Hairdressers in Australia are expected to grow strongly over the next 5 years as more than 31,000 new jobs open up around the country. Hairdressers mainly work in hair and beauty salons, but there are also opportunities to work in day spas, cruise ships, fashion houses, hotels and resorts, theatres and production studios.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Hairdresser?
Hairdressers usually get started by completing an apprenticeship with a qualified hairdresser. To prepare yourself for an apprenticeship try completing a VET qualification such as the certificate II in Salon Assistant or the Certificate III and IV in Hairdressing. A hairdressing apprenticeship can take 3-4 years to complete.
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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
Hairdressers style and cut hair as well as carry out a range of hair treatments like perming, tints and colouring, straightening, and adding extensions. Working in a hair salon you’ll begin your career washing hair and preparing customers for their treatments, then and as your skills increase you’ll be mixing chemicals and carrying out advanced styling techniques.
Hairdressers don’t just cut hair though. Even beginners will be making appointments, selling retail products to clients (shampoos, conditioners, and take-home treatments), conducting cash sales, plus cleaning and sanitising equipment in between customers.
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