Unqualified hairdressers and barbers working in a hairdressing salon or barbershop are covered by the Miscellaneous Award. They’ll be classified based on their experience.
The Hair and Beauty Award doesn’t cover unqualified hairdressers and barbers, even where their employer is in the hair and beauty industry. This is because there’s no classification for an unqualified hairdresser or barber in the Hair and Beauty Award. Hairdressers and barbers can only be classified under the Hair and Beauty Award if they hold a Certificate III in Hairdressing (or equivalent).
Some states and territories have regulations that specify only qualified people can do hairdressing or barbering work, for example in New South Wales and South Australia. Employers and employees should seek independent advice on their own circumstances.
For information on hair and beauty employees working in other industries see Award coverage for hair and beauty employees working in other industries.
References
What to do next
- Find out more about industry and occupation awards at About awards
- Our Award classifications page covers how to read and apply classification descriptions in awards
- We also have Award summaries of who is and isn’t covered by awards
- Ask our virtual assistant, Frankie, a question from our Contact us page.
