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SHB30416 Certificate III in Hairdressing

National ID
SHB30416
WA Course Code
BAA1
CRICOS code
096422F
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Person in a salon environment
Five students stand together, facing the camera with big smiles. In the background is a body of water and a scenic view of the Perth skyline

Why choose this course?

Brush up your skills for a career as a hairdresser with this qualification. Develop skills in cutting hair using clippers and scissors, learn how to shampoo, condition and rinse hair, and how to dry and style hair using brushes, combs, rollers and other equipment.

During your studies you will learn the skills to operate a cash register and computer, and perform reception duties such as answering telephone calls, making appointments and writing up client record cards.

This course has a practical work placement in a commercial hairdressing salon in order for you to obtain the skill level required to work in the hairdressing industry.

Career opportunities

  • Hairdresser
  • Technical Adviser - Hair Products

When choosing a course, it's important to think about the key skills and knowledge you'll need, as well as how you'll be assessed. Take a look at this information and consider if you might face any challenges in meeting the course expectations and requirements.

The workplace of a hairdresser can vary based on the type of salon, clientele, and geographic location. Salons can range from small, independently owned establishments to large, upscale chains located in urban areas or shopping centres.

Inside the salon, hairdressers typically have their own workstation equipped with essential tools and equipment such as styling chairs, mirrors, sinks, and a variety of hair care products. The atmosphere is often lively and energetic, with music playing in the background and a buzz of conversation as stylists interact with clients and colleagues. 

The work schedule of a hairdresser can vary, with many working full-time, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate clients' busy schedules. Flexibility in scheduling is common, allowing hairdressers to balance work and personal commitments. Additionally, some hairdressers may choose to work as freelancers, renting booth space in a salon or offering mobile services to clients in their homes or other locations.

Common traits of successful hairdressers

•    Interpersonal skills & communication: Excellent interpersonal skills help hairdressers read clients' body language and facial expressions to ensure satisfaction. Strong communication skills are essential for listening to and understanding clients' requests.

•    Good time management: Effective time management helps hairdressers achieve clients' desired results within the allotted time.

•    Physical stamina: Good physical stamina allows hairdressers to stand and work for long hours daily.

•    Problem-solving: These skills help hairdressers address client queries about hair colour or style.

•    Organization: Being organized helps hairdressers manage their toolkit and maintain a tidy workstation.

•    Dexterity: Manual dexterity allows hairdressers to work steadily with their hands for extended periods.

•    Mathematics: Math skills are useful for managing financial aspects such as commissions, handling payments, and distributing tips.


  • An IELTS score (academic) of 6.0 with no band score less than 5.0 or equivalent.

  • Completion of the equivalent of Australian Year 10.

​Please view Admission requirements for your country of origin.

Please refer to the Non-Tuition Fees section of your Letter of Offer for any additional requirements where a cost may be incurred.

Your study options

Semester 2, 2025

Duration | 3 semesters
When | Semester 2, 2025
Where | North Metropolitan TAFE (52786)

Location map

How | On campus, to a minimum of 20 contact hours per week
Fees (total indicative for course)
  • Tuition fee: $21,084
  • Resources fee: $1,401
  • Materials fee: $702

Tuition fees are reviewed annually. If tuition fees are increased, you will be required to pay the new fees as they are introduced. You will be provided with an indicative schedule of fees in your Letter of Offer.

Resource fees are for consumables you use in your course e.g. paint, internet etc. You pay this fee to your college at enrolment. If your course goes longer than one semester, the resource fee may not need to be paid in one amount but may be spaced out over the duration of your course. Your college will advise you of the payment amount each semester.

Material fees are for items that remain your property after the course has been completed e.g. personal protective equipment, tools, text books etc.

Work placement

There is no work placement requirement for this course, however this qualification is delivered in a simulated salon environment where students can practice all the skills and techniques they have learnt during the course. 

Year 10/11/12
SHB30416 Certificate III in Hairdressing - BAA1
3 semesters

To achieve this qualification, students must demonstrate competency in 28 units. These 28 are comprised of 21 core units and 7 elective units. Elective units listed below have been selected in consultation with industry.

Students who enrol into this qualification will be eligible for credit transfer of the units that they have already achieved. Fees paid by international students are set on a commercial basis and are paid as a whole of course fee - no refund will apply to credit transfers. Please refer to your letter of Offer for detailed duration and costings for your enrolment.

Core units
    National ID
    Unit title
  • BSBSUS201 Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices
  • SHBHBAS001 Provide shampoo and basin services
  • SHBHCLS002 Colour and lighten hair
  • SHBHCLS003 Provide full and partial head highlighting treatments
  • SHBHCLS004 Neutralise unwanted colours and tones
  • SHBHCLS005 Provide on scalp full head and retouch bleach treatments
  • SHBHCUT001 Design haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT002 Create one length or solid haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT003 Create graduated haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT004 Create layered haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT005 Cut hair using over-comb techniques
  • SHBHDES003 Create finished hair designs
  • SHBHIND001 Maintain and organise tools, equipment and work areas
  • SHBHIND003 Develop and expand a client base
  • SHBHREF002 Straighten and relax hair with chemical treatments
  • SHBHTRI001 Identify and treat hair and scalp conditions
  • SHBXCCS001 Conduct salon financial transactions
  • SHBXCCS002 Provide salon services to clients
  • SHBXIND001 Comply with organisational requirements within a personal services environment
  • SHBXIND002 Communicate as part of a salon team
  • SHBXWHS001 Apply safe hygiene, health and work practices
Elective units
    National ID
    Unit title
  • SHBHCUT006 Create combined haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT007 Create combined traditional and classic men's haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT011 Design and maintain beards and moustaches
  • SHBHCUT012 Shave heads and faces
  • SHBHDES004 Create classic long hair up-styles
  • SIRRINV001 Receive and handle retail stock
  • SIRRMER001 Produce visual merchandise displays

Assessment methods

The methods of assessment used in this course include written tests, oral questions, and direct observations of practical activities. Assessments will be conducted on campus in the simulated salon and you will be given schedules to arrange models for assessment.

These assessment strategies and evidence gathering are in accordance with the relevant training package or accreditation guidelines. Detailed Information is available in the assessment matrix, learning plans and assessment tools for each of the units of competency. Assessors use this matrix to ensure assessments, are undertaken across the duration of the course, rather than clustered together at particular times.

Learning resources, facilities and equipment

The following learning resources, facilities and equipment are available at each campus so that you can achieve the skill and knowledge requirements of this course.

Learning resources may include access to a simulated work environment, resource books, handouts, Blackboard, online resources and DVDs through the library. Students will bring their own small hand tool from the kit bag purchased from the College.

Facilities and equipment may include access to fully equipped simulated salons, classrooms, computer labs, and equipment facilities relevant to the hairdressing industry.

Key dates

Semester and holiday dates are included in your Letter of Offer. View upcoming semester start and end dates.

Semester 1, 2026

Duration | 3 semesters
When | Semester 1, 2026
Where | North Metropolitan TAFE (52786)

Location map

How | On campus, to a minimum of 20 contact hours per week
Fees (total indicative for course)
  • Tuition fee: $21,084
  • Resources fee: $1,401
  • Materials fee: $702

Tuition fees are reviewed annually. If tuition fees are increased, you will be required to pay the new fees as they are introduced. You will be provided with an indicative schedule of fees in your Letter of Offer.

Resource fees are for consumables you use in your course e.g. paint, internet etc. You pay this fee to your college at enrolment. If your course goes longer than one semester, the resource fee may not need to be paid in one amount but may be spaced out over the duration of your course. Your college will advise you of the payment amount each semester.

Material fees are for items that remain your property after the course has been completed e.g. personal protective equipment, tools, text books etc.

Work placement

There is no work placement requirement for this course, however this qualification is delivered in a simulated salon environment where students can practice all the skills and techniques they have learnt during the course. 

Year 10/11/12
SHB30416 Certificate III in Hairdressing - BAA1
3 semesters

To achieve this qualification, students must demonstrate competency in 28 units. These 28 are comprised of 21 core units and 7 elective units. Elective units listed below have been selected in consultation with industry.

Students who enrol into this qualification will be eligible for credit transfer of the units that they have already achieved. Fees paid by international students are set on a commercial basis and are paid as a whole of course fee - no refund will apply to credit transfers. Please refer to your letter of Offer for detailed duration and costings for your enrolment.

Core units
    National ID
    Unit title
  • BSBSUS201 Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices
  • SHBHBAS001 Provide shampoo and basin services
  • SHBHCLS002 Colour and lighten hair
  • SHBHCLS003 Provide full and partial head highlighting treatments
  • SHBHCLS004 Neutralise unwanted colours and tones
  • SHBHCLS005 Provide on scalp full head and retouch bleach treatments
  • SHBHCUT001 Design haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT002 Create one length or solid haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT003 Create graduated haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT004 Create layered haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT005 Cut hair using over-comb techniques
  • SHBHDES003 Create finished hair designs
  • SHBHIND001 Maintain and organise tools, equipment and work areas
  • SHBHIND003 Develop and expand a client base
  • SHBHREF002 Straighten and relax hair with chemical treatments
  • SHBHTRI001 Identify and treat hair and scalp conditions
  • SHBXCCS001 Conduct salon financial transactions
  • SHBXCCS002 Provide salon services to clients
  • SHBXIND001 Comply with organisational requirements within a personal services environment
  • SHBXIND002 Communicate as part of a salon team
  • SHBXWHS001 Apply safe hygiene, health and work practices
Elective units
    National ID
    Unit title
  • SHBHCUT006 Create combined haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT007 Create combined traditional and classic men's haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT011 Design and maintain beards and moustaches
  • SHBHCUT012 Shave heads and faces
  • SHBHDES004 Create classic long hair up-styles
  • SIRRINV001 Receive and handle retail stock
  • SIRRMER001 Produce visual merchandise displays

Assessment methods

The methods of assessment used in this course include written tests, oral questions, and direct observations of practical activities. Assessments will be conducted on campus in the simulated salon and you will be given schedules to arrange models for assessment.

These assessment strategies and evidence gathering are in accordance with the relevant training package or accreditation guidelines. Detailed Information is available in the assessment matrix, learning plans and assessment tools for each of the units of competency. Assessors use this matrix to ensure assessments, are undertaken across the duration of the course, rather than clustered together at particular times.

Learning resources, facilities and equipment

The following learning resources, facilities and equipment are available at each campus so that you can achieve the skill and knowledge requirements of this course.

Learning resources may include access to a simulated work environment, resource books, handouts, Blackboard, online resources and DVDs through the library. Students will bring their own small hand tool from the kit bag purchased from the College.

Facilities and equipment may include access to fully equipped simulated salons, classrooms, computer labs, and equipment facilities relevant to the hairdressing industry.

Key dates

Semester and holiday dates are included in your Letter of Offer. View upcoming semester start and end dates.

Semester 2, 2026

Duration | 3 semesters
When | Semester 2, 2026
Where | North Metropolitan TAFE (52786)

Location map

How | On campus, to a minimum of 20 contact hours per week
Fees (total indicative for course)
  • Tuition fee: $21,084
  • Resources fee: $1,401
  • Materials fee: $702

Tuition fees are reviewed annually. If tuition fees are increased, you will be required to pay the new fees as they are introduced. You will be provided with an indicative schedule of fees in your Letter of Offer.

Resource fees are for consumables you use in your course e.g. paint, internet etc. You pay this fee to your college at enrolment. If your course goes longer than one semester, the resource fee may not need to be paid in one amount but may be spaced out over the duration of your course. Your college will advise you of the payment amount each semester.

Material fees are for items that remain your property after the course has been completed e.g. personal protective equipment, tools, text books etc.

Work placement

There is no work placement requirement for this course, however this qualification is delivered in a simulated salon environment where students can practice all the skills and techniques they have learnt during the course. 

Year 10/11/12
SHB30416 Certificate III in Hairdressing - BAA1
3 semesters

To achieve this qualification, students must demonstrate competency in 28 units. These 28 are comprised of 21 core units and 7 elective units. Elective units listed below have been selected in consultation with industry.

Students who enrol into this qualification will be eligible for credit transfer of the units that they have already achieved. Fees paid by international students are set on a commercial basis and are paid as a whole of course fee - no refund will apply to credit transfers. Please refer to your letter of Offer for detailed duration and costings for your enrolment.

Core units
    National ID
    Unit title
  • BSBSUS201 Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices
  • SHBHBAS001 Provide shampoo and basin services
  • SHBHCLS002 Colour and lighten hair
  • SHBHCLS003 Provide full and partial head highlighting treatments
  • SHBHCLS004 Neutralise unwanted colours and tones
  • SHBHCLS005 Provide on scalp full head and retouch bleach treatments
  • SHBHCUT001 Design haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT002 Create one length or solid haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT003 Create graduated haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT004 Create layered haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT005 Cut hair using over-comb techniques
  • SHBHDES003 Create finished hair designs
  • SHBHIND001 Maintain and organise tools, equipment and work areas
  • SHBHIND003 Develop and expand a client base
  • SHBHREF002 Straighten and relax hair with chemical treatments
  • SHBHTRI001 Identify and treat hair and scalp conditions
  • SHBXCCS001 Conduct salon financial transactions
  • SHBXCCS002 Provide salon services to clients
  • SHBXIND001 Comply with organisational requirements within a personal services environment
  • SHBXIND002 Communicate as part of a salon team
  • SHBXWHS001 Apply safe hygiene, health and work practices
Elective units
    National ID
    Unit title
  • SHBHCUT006 Create combined haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT007 Create combined traditional and classic men's haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT011 Design and maintain beards and moustaches
  • SHBHCUT012 Shave heads and faces
  • SHBHDES004 Create classic long hair up-styles
  • SIRRINV001 Receive and handle retail stock
  • SIRRMER001 Produce visual merchandise displays

Assessment methods

The methods of assessment used in this course include written tests, oral questions, and direct observations of practical activities. Assessments will be conducted on campus in the simulated salon and you will be given schedules to arrange models for assessment.

These assessment strategies and evidence gathering are in accordance with the relevant training package or accreditation guidelines. Detailed Information is available in the assessment matrix, learning plans and assessment tools for each of the units of competency. Assessors use this matrix to ensure assessments, are undertaken across the duration of the course, rather than clustered together at particular times.

Learning resources, facilities and equipment

The following learning resources, facilities and equipment are available at each campus so that you can achieve the skill and knowledge requirements of this course.

Learning resources may include access to a simulated work environment, resource books, handouts, Blackboard, online resources and DVDs through the library. Students will bring their own small hand tool from the kit bag purchased from the College.

Facilities and equipment may include access to fully equipped simulated salons, classrooms, computer labs, and equipment facilities relevant to the hairdressing industry.

Key dates

Semester and holiday dates are included in your Letter of Offer. View upcoming semester start and end dates.

Semester 1, 2027

Duration | 3 semesters
When | Semester 1, 2027
Where | North Metropolitan TAFE (52786)

Location map

How | On campus, to a minimum of 20 contact hours per week
Fees (total indicative for course)
  • Tuition fee: $21,084
  • Resources fee: $1,401
  • Materials fee: $702

Tuition fees are reviewed annually. If tuition fees are increased, you will be required to pay the new fees as they are introduced. You will be provided with an indicative schedule of fees in your Letter of Offer.

Resource fees are for consumables you use in your course e.g. paint, internet etc. You pay this fee to your college at enrolment. If your course goes longer than one semester, the resource fee may not need to be paid in one amount but may be spaced out over the duration of your course. Your college will advise you of the payment amount each semester.

Material fees are for items that remain your property after the course has been completed e.g. personal protective equipment, tools, text books etc.

Work placement

There is no work placement requirement for this course, however this qualification is delivered in a simulated salon environment where students can practice all the skills and techniques they have learnt during the course. 

Year 10/11/12
SHB30416 Certificate III in Hairdressing - BAA1
3 semesters

To achieve this qualification, students must demonstrate competency in 28 units. These 28 are comprised of 21 core units and 7 elective units. Elective units listed below have been selected in consultation with industry.

Students who enrol into this qualification will be eligible for credit transfer of the units that they have already achieved. Fees paid by international students are set on a commercial basis and are paid as a whole of course fee - no refund will apply to credit transfers. Please refer to your letter of Offer for detailed duration and costings for your enrolment.

Core units
    National ID
    Unit title
  • BSBSUS201 Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices
  • SHBHBAS001 Provide shampoo and basin services
  • SHBHCLS002 Colour and lighten hair
  • SHBHCLS003 Provide full and partial head highlighting treatments
  • SHBHCLS004 Neutralise unwanted colours and tones
  • SHBHCLS005 Provide on scalp full head and retouch bleach treatments
  • SHBHCUT001 Design haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT002 Create one length or solid haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT003 Create graduated haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT004 Create layered haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT005 Cut hair using over-comb techniques
  • SHBHDES003 Create finished hair designs
  • SHBHIND001 Maintain and organise tools, equipment and work areas
  • SHBHIND003 Develop and expand a client base
  • SHBHREF002 Straighten and relax hair with chemical treatments
  • SHBHTRI001 Identify and treat hair and scalp conditions
  • SHBXCCS001 Conduct salon financial transactions
  • SHBXCCS002 Provide salon services to clients
  • SHBXIND001 Comply with organisational requirements within a personal services environment
  • SHBXIND002 Communicate as part of a salon team
  • SHBXWHS001 Apply safe hygiene, health and work practices
Elective units
    National ID
    Unit title
  • SHBHCUT006 Create combined haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT007 Create combined traditional and classic men's haircut structures
  • SHBHCUT011 Design and maintain beards and moustaches
  • SHBHCUT012 Shave heads and faces
  • SHBHDES004 Create classic long hair up-styles
  • SIRRINV001 Receive and handle retail stock
  • SIRRMER001 Produce visual merchandise displays

Assessment methods

The methods of assessment used in this course include written tests, oral questions, and direct observations of practical activities. Assessments will be conducted on campus in the simulated salon and you will be given schedules to arrange models for assessment.

These assessment strategies and evidence gathering are in accordance with the relevant training package or accreditation guidelines. Detailed Information is available in the assessment matrix, learning plans and assessment tools for each of the units of competency. Assessors use this matrix to ensure assessments, are undertaken across the duration of the course, rather than clustered together at particular times.

Learning resources, facilities and equipment

The following learning resources, facilities and equipment are available at each campus so that you can achieve the skill and knowledge requirements of this course.

Learning resources may include access to a simulated work environment, resource books, handouts, Blackboard, online resources and DVDs through the library. Students will bring their own small hand tool from the kit bag purchased from the College.

Facilities and equipment may include access to fully equipped simulated salons, classrooms, computer labs, and equipment facilities relevant to the hairdressing industry.

Key dates

Semester and holiday dates are included in your Letter of Offer. View upcoming semester start and end dates.

There may be further semester intakes available for enrolment. You can view any further intakes when you submit your online application(opens in a new tab).

For information about pathways from TAFE to university, view our Pathways to university page.

How to apply

Apply to study at TAFE in six steps:

  1. find a course;
  2. check entry requirements;
  3. submit an application;
  4. accept your offer and pay;
  5. apply for your student visa; and
  6. receive your visa and come to Australia for your studies.

View our TAFE application process page for detailed advice

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TAFE International Western Australia (TIWA) is the Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) provider, for the delivery of training to international students, enrolled in a TAFE course in Western Australia. This nationally recognised course is delivered by a Western Australian TAFE college on TIWA's behalf. TIWA retains responsibility for the quality of the training and assessment delivered by the TAFE colleges and for the issue of certification documentation to students.

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Last updated on December 1, 2022