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Hairdresser Salary in Brisbane

Service

Hairdressers cut, color, and style hair for clients in salons and barbershops.

Average Salary
$49,400
per year
Take-Home Pay
$42,804
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$40-71k
$49K
$40K$71K

Job Market Outlook

Low AI Risk

Physical or high-touch work with limited AI automation potential

In Demand

More jobs than qualified candidates in Australia

+8% growth

Moderate projected employment growth over 5 years

Sources: Microsoft Research 2025, Jobs and Skills Australia 2025 Occupation Shortage List

Hairdresser Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Brisbane

Based on the average Hairdresser salary of $49,400 in Brisbane, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$49,400$49,400
Income Tax-$5,608-$5,608
Medicare Levy (2%)-$988-$988
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$0
Superannuation (11%)+$5,434+$5,434
Annual Take-Home$42,804$42,804
Monthly Take-Home$3,567$3,567
Fortnightly Take-Home$1,646$1,646

Calculate Your Exact Take-Home Pay

Enter your actual salary to see a personalized breakdown including your specific tax situation, HECS debt, and family status.

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Your salary
$49,000
Take-home$42,804
Tax-$5,608
Super+$5,434

How to Become a Hairdresser

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Hairdresser in Queensland.

Qualifications Required

Essential Requirements
  • Certificate III in Hairdressing (apprenticeship)
  • Strong customer service skills
  • Physical stamina for standing
Preferred Qualifications
  • Certificate IV in Hairdressing
  • Barbering qualification
  • Color specialist training
Relevant Certifications
Advanced cutting certificationsColor brand certifications (e.g., L'Oréal)Extension application certification

Career Progression

Salary Growth Trajectory
$25KEntry$49KMid$59KSenior$74KLead
Entry Level

Apprentice Hairdresser

$24,700
estimated in Brisbane
0-3 years
Mid Level

Qualified Hairdresser

$49,400
estimated in Brisbane
3-7 years
Senior Level

Senior Stylist / Specialist

$59,280
estimated in Brisbane
7-12 years
Leadership

Salon Manager / Owner

$74,100
estimated in Brisbane
10+ years

Skills in Demand

Balayage and creative coloringExtensions and additionsBarbering crossover skillsKeratin treatmentsSocial media marketing

Tips for Breaking In

  1. 1Build a strong client base through excellent service
  2. 2Specialize in high-value services like color or extensions
  3. 3Social media presence can significantly boost bookings
  4. 4Consider salon ownership or chair rental for higher earnings
  5. 5Attend industry events and training for latest trends

Career information is general guidance based on industry standards. Requirements may vary by employer and location.

Hairdresser Hourly Rate in Brisbane

Based on a standard 38-hour work week (Australian full-time hours):

Entry Level
$20/hr
Average
$25/hr
Senior
$36/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Hairdresser earn in Brisbane?

The average Hairdresser salary in Brisbane is $49,400 per year, or approximately $25 per hour. Salaries range from $39,900 to $71,250 depending on experience.

What is the take-home pay for a Hairdresser in Brisbane?

A Hairdresser earning $49,400 in Brisbane takes home approximately $42,804 per year after tax, or $3,567 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $42,804 per year.

How much do Hairdressers make per hour in Brisbane?

Hairdressers in Brisbane earn approximately $25 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $20/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $36/hour.

Is Brisbane a good place to work as a Hairdresser?

Brisbane offers Hairdresser salaries around average in Australia at $49,400. The city has a cost of living index of 88 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Hairdresser Salaries in Brisbane

The average Hairdresser in Brisbane, Queensland earns $49,400 per year, or approximately $25 per hour. Salaries typically range from $39,900 for entry-level positions to $71,250 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Hairdresser earning the average salary in Brisbane can expect to take home approximately $42,804 per year, or $3,567 per month.

Brisbane is home to approximately 2.6 million people and has a cost of living index of 88 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Brisbane are lower Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Hairdresser Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $39,900, while senior roles can reach $71,250.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Hairdresser roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Brisbane's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Hairdressers earn $$20-$36 per hour.

Salary data is based on industry reports, job postings, and government statistics. Individual salaries may vary based on experience, qualifications, and employer. Tax calculations are estimates for the 2024-25 financial year.