RealPay

Hairdresser Salary in Sydney

Service

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

Average Salary
$57,200
per year
Take-Home Pay
$48,108
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$46-83k
$57K
$46K$83K

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 Sydney

Based on the average Hairdresser salary of $57,200 in Sydney, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$57,200$57,200
Income Tax-$7,948-$7,948
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,144-$1,144
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$572
Superannuation (11%)+$6,292+$6,292
Annual Take-Home$48,108$47,536
Monthly Take-Home$4,009$3,961
Fortnightly Take-Home$1,850$1,828

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.

Open Salary Calculator
Your salary
$57,000
Take-home$48,108
Tax-$7,948
Super+$6,292

How to Become a Hairdresser

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Hairdresser in New South Wales.

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
$29KEntry$57KMid$69KSenior$86KLead
Entry Level

Apprentice Hairdresser

$28,600
estimated in Sydney
0-3 years
Mid Level

Qualified Hairdresser

$57,200
estimated in Sydney
3-7 years
Senior Level

Senior Stylist / Specialist

$68,640
estimated in Sydney
7-12 years
Leadership

Salon Manager / Owner

$85,800
estimated in Sydney
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 Sydney

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

Entry Level
$23/hr
Average
$29/hr
Senior
$42/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Hairdresser earn in Sydney?

The average Hairdresser salary in Sydney is $57,200 per year, or approximately $29 per hour. Salaries range from $46,200 to $82,500 depending on experience.

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

A Hairdresser earning $57,200 in Sydney takes home approximately $48,108 per year after tax, or $4,009 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $47,536 per year.

How much do Hairdressers make per hour in Sydney?

Hairdressers in Sydney earn approximately $29 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $23/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $42/hour.

Is Sydney a good place to work as a Hairdresser?

Sydney offers Hairdresser salaries among the highest in Australia at $57,200. The city has a cost of living index of 100 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are similar to Sydney.

About Hairdresser Salaries in Sydney

The average Hairdresser in Sydney, New South Wales earns $57,200 per year, or approximately $29 per hour. Salaries typically range from $46,200 for entry-level positions to $82,500 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Hairdresser earning the average salary in Sydney can expect to take home approximately $48,108 per year, or $4,009 per month.

Sydney is home to approximately 5.3 million people and has a cost of living index of 100 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Sydney are similar to Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Hairdresser Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $46,200, while senior roles can reach $82,500.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Hairdresser roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Sydney's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Hairdressers earn $$23-$42 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.