THE BARBER INDUSTRY IN AUSTRALIA:

Cert II Programs and Pathways to Certification

By Jimmy O’Brien – Jimmy Rods

The Barbering Industry in Australia is an essential part of the broader beauty and personal care sector, playing a significant role in shaping the latest grooming trends. Over the past decade, barbering has evolved from a traditional, localised service to a thriving industry that attracts young, aspiring professionals eager to learn the craft and build careers.

Training for this profession is pivotal to ensuring that new entrants have the necessary skills and knowledge to meet industry standards. The SHB20216 Certificate II in Salon Assistant that we have been using is a key stepping stone for many who wish to become professional barbers, providing a foundational understanding of the craft before advancing to more complex qualifications like the SHB30516 Certificate III in Barbering. Currently, the Certificate II in Salon Assistant provides a broad introduction to the hair industry.

We are advocating for the development of a dedicated Certificate II Introduction to Barbering, which would offer a more tailored approach, focusing specifically on the foundational skills and techniques essential for a career in barbering.

The Role of RTOs (Registered Training Organisations) in Barbering Education In Australia, vocational education and training (VET) is regulated by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) and provided through Registered Training Organisations (RTOs). These RTOs offer nationally recognised training that aligns with the qualifications set by the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

RTOs are essential for delivering quality barbering education, as they are responsible for ensuring that their courses meet industry standards and equip students with the practical and theoretical knowledge needed to succeed in the barbering profession.

For those pursuing a career in barbering, completing the Certificate II in Salon Assistant is often the first step. This qualification is typically delivered by Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and provides students with essential entry-level skills, preparing them for work in a barbershop environment. The Cert II covers fundamental techniques and knowledge, including hair cutting, styling, shaving, and customer service, ensuring students develop a strong foundation in the trade.

For school-based trainees and apprentices, the Certificate II offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience while completing their education. Through structured training and realworld practice in a barbershop, school-based participants can develop their skills under the guidance of experienced barbers. RTOs ensure the program aligns with industry standards, providing a clear pathway for students to transition into a full-time apprenticeship, secure employment as a barber, or advance to higher qualifications in the field.

The Importance of the Certificate II

The Certificate II offers a comprehensive introduction to the barbering industry, focusing on practical skills, safety protocols, and essential client service practices. The course typically includes modules such as:

Haircutting Techniques: This includes basic cutting, trimming, and styling, with an emphasis on the different styles, tools, and products used in the barbering trade.

Shaving and Grooming: Students learn traditional shaving techniques, beard grooming, and facial treatments, essential for working in barbershops.

Health and Safety: The program ensures that apprentices are familiar with workplace safety standards, sanitation practices, and the handling of tools and equipment in a safe and hygienic manner.

Client Communication: Developing good client relationships and communication skills are key components, ensuring that barbers can cater to client needs and offer professional advice.

The Certificate II also serves as an important pathway into the Certificate III in Barbering, which is a more advanced qualification. While the Cert II focuses on the basics, the Cert III provides a more in-depth exploration of the trade, building upon the foundations.

Funding and Government Support

The Australian Government recognises the importance of developing a skilled workforce and offers a range of funding initiatives to support apprenticeships and traineeships across various industries, including barbering. One of the key funding models available is the User Choice Program, which provides financial assistance to apprentices and trainees to help cover training costs associated with completing qualifications. This funding is often directed toward apprentices who are employed in the industry and are undertaking formal training with an RTO.

In addition, Smart and Skilled is another government initiative aimed at providing financial support for students pursuing vocational education. It offers subsidised training in various qualifications, including those in the barbering industry. Students who meet specific eligibility criteria may receive fee relief, making the Cert II and Cert III programs more affordable. These funding options are designed to support individuals in gaining industry-recognised qualifications and skills, contributing to the overall growth and sustainability of the barbering profession in Australia.

The Pathway from Cert II to Cert III

The transition from the Certificate II to the Certificate III in Barbering is an important progression for aspiring barbers. While the Cert II provides the essential skills for entrylevel employment, the Cert III is designed for those who wish to further develop their craft and become fully qualified barbers. The Cert III is usually a combination of on-the-job training and more detailed theoretical learning. It covers advanced techniques in hair cutting, styling, and grooming, as well as client consultation and business management skills. By completing the Cert III, students are eligible to work independently as professional barbers and may even open their own barbershops.

The Cert III in Barbering often opens up further career opportunities, such as becoming a senior barber, barber shop owner, or trainer in the field. The more advanced qualification is highly valued in the industry, as it demonstrates a high level of expertise and professionalism. Many RTOs offer the Cert III as a progression from the Cert II, ensuring that students have a clear pathway and can continue their learning journey seamlessly.

Wrapping up for the first issue 2025

The barbering industry in Australia continues to thrive, driven by both traditional techniques and modern trends. The Certificate II is a crucial starting point for many aspiring professionals, offering a solid foundation in essential barbering skills as well as life skills that will last them throughout their career. Certificate II in Salon Assistant needs to be changed to Certificate II Introduction to Barbering in 2025.

With the support of RTOs, government funding programs, and a clear pathway to more advanced qualifications like the Certificate III, young apprentices are more well-equipped to enter and succeed in the industry. As the demand for skilled barbers grows, those who complete their training through these structured programs are well-positioned to make their mark in one of Australia’s most dynamic and rewarding industries.

@jimmyrods