I Never Thought Owning A Small Business Would Be So Hard

Written By the Australian Hairdressing Council. (The AHC)

This is feedback that we hear at the AHC every day.

Running a small business is undoubtedly a challenge. While you may excel in your hairdressing skills, the multifaceted responsibilities that come with being a small business owner can be overwhelming.

To succeed, you must navigate complex and often confusing industrial relations laws, taxation regulations, bookkeeping, marketing strategies, Fair Trade legislation, and simultaneously cultivate a positive and productive workplace culture, all while striving to turn a profit.

The harsh reality is that many small business owners find themselves earning less than their employees and carrying all the responsibilities.

They often lack the luxury of personal leave, mental health leave, annual leave, or long service leave, as their focus is on the daily demands of their salon. New industrial relations laws further exacerbate the challenges of employing and retaining skilled staff.

In an industry that is female-oriented, there is a perpetual skills shortage. Many talented individuals leave their salon to start families and, unfortunately, do not always return to full-time roles, instead opting for casual or part-time work, compounding staffing issues.

Employees have become increasingly demanding, seeking higher pay for reduced hours without a full grasp of the underlying business costs.

Complicating matters, the current government often prioritises the interests of large corporations over the concerns of small businesses. Small business owners often feel overlooked and underrepresented in the political landscape, making it imperative for them to seek collective support.

This is where industry associations like the Australian Hairdressing Council (AHC) come into play. They serve as a crucial bridge between small business owners in the hairdressing industry and the government.

The AHC acts as an advocate, representing our industry’s interests when crucial decisions involving industrial relations, education, training, and migration, are considered.

Whether you operate as a sole proprietor, work from home, own a salon, provide education or training, or serve as an industry supplier, the AHC is dedicated to representing your needs.

Being a member of the AHC provides its members with access to what is occurring that can impact our industry, with relevant updates, information, and valuable resources. It offers a sense of reassurance that someone is advocating on behalf of small business owners, striving for the betterment of the industry.

In today’s business landscape, where challenges abound, joining an association like the AHC is not merely a choice; it is a necessity. Unlike profit-driven groups, industry-focused associations like the AHC prioritise the welfare and prosperity of small businesses, ensuring they have a voice and support in an increasingly complex and competitive world.

Whether you are a salon owner or a solo operator, the AHC’s tax-deductible memberships will be the best investment you’ve ever made for your piece of mind. You can explore our memberships at www. theahc.org.au/memberships

We can help you with compliance, community, advice, support, and friendship. Check out our dozens of glowing testimonials from our members: www.theahc.org.au/testimonials

Ahc Member Testimonial: “The last three years in business have been tough. Thanks to the AHC, who held my hand through every moment. I wouldn’t be without them.” - Jeanette Rowe, Thomson Street Hair Design

@aushaircouncil