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How to Become A Colourist

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What is a Colourist

A Colourist is a hair professional who specialises in creating and applying colour for clients. They work in salons to deliver everything from subtle highlights to bold, full-colour transformations.

Colourists consult with clients to find the right colour direction. They mix formulas and apply dye using techniques like balayage and foiling. They also advise clients on keeping their colour fresh at home. Every appointment is a chance to express creativity and make someone feel great.

The role suits people who love working with others, have a good eye for colour, and enjoy learning new techniques. Trends in hair colour change fast, so staying up to date is part of the job.

To become a Colourist in Australia, you usually start with a Certificate III in Hairdressing (SHB30416). Most people complete this through an apprenticeship at a salon while learning on the job. Once qualified, you can build your skills and work your way up in the industry.

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Career Outlook for Colourist

The job outlook for Colourists in Australia is steady. Around 65,400 Australians work as hairdressers, and future demand is rated as stable (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Annual employment growth is around 500 new roles per year. The occupation has a median age of 38, and women make up 77% of the workforce (ABS, 2025).

Full-time Colourists average 40 hours per week. About 49% of all hairdressers work part-time (ABS Labour Force Survey, 2025). Median full-time weekly earnings are $1,209, or about $63,000 per year (ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours, May 2025). As you gain experience and build a loyal client base, your earning potential grows. Senior and specialist Colourists can earn above the median.

The beauty and hair industry keeps evolving. New colour techniques and products emerge each year, so there is always something to learn. For those who love creativity and working with people, this career offers solid, long-term opportunities across Australia.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become a Colourist

Step 1: Complete the Certificate III in Hairdressing (SHB30416)

Enrol in the Certificate III in Hairdressing (SHB30416) at a TAFE or registered training organisation (RTO). This is the minimum qualification to work as a hairdresser or Colourist in Australia. Most students complete it through a three-year apprenticeship. You work in a paid salon role while attending classes part-time. The course covers colour theory, chemical services, cutting, styling, client consultation, and health and safety. Contact an Australian Apprenticeships Centre to find a host employer and register as an apprentice.

Step 2: Gain Hands-On Experience in Colour

After completing your apprenticeship, work in a salon for at least 12 months to build practical colour skills. Focus on common services such as foiling, all-over colour, toning, and root touch-ups. Seek out a mentor. Find an experienced Colourist in your salon who can guide you on more advanced techniques. The more varied your colour experience early on, the faster your skills will develop.

Step 3: Complete Short Courses in Advanced Colour Techniques

Take short courses in specialist techniques such as balayage, colour correction, and colour theory. Many professional product companies run technical education programs for qualified hairdressers. Look for programs from recognised suppliers that offer formal completion certificates. These typically run from one to three days and can be completed alongside full-time salon work.

Step 4: Join the Australian Hairdressing Council (AHC)

Register with the Australian Hairdressing Council (AHC), the national industry body for hairdressing professionals. AHC membership gives you access to industry news, business resources, and professional recognition. It also connects you with a network of peers. Building these connections early helps you stay current and move into senior or specialist roles over time.

Step 5: Build a Professional Portfolio and Client Base

Document your colour work from the start of your career. Take before-and-after photos of different services and build a portfolio that shows the range of your skills. A strong portfolio helps you apply for senior positions and attract new clients. As your client base grows, your reputation as a Colourist becomes your most valuable career asset.

What does a Colourist do?

A Colourist’s day centres on transforming hair and keeping clients happy. They start by consulting with each client to understand what look they want. Then they mix colour, apply it using techniques like balayage or foiling, and monitor the processing time. They check hair health before each service and give advice on caring for colour at home. Good Colourists keep detailed client records so they can repeat great results every visit. Staying on top of new trends and techniques is part of the role too.

Tasks

A Colourist handles a range of tasks each day in the salon, from preparing formulas to advising clients on aftercare. Here are the key activities that make up the role:

  • Client consultation: talk through colour goals and assess hair health before starting.
  • Colour mixing: prepare dye formulas to achieve the exact shade the client wants.
  • Colour application: apply colour using techniques such as balayage, foiling, and all-over colour.
  • Colour correction: fix uneven colour or unwanted tones from previous treatments.
  • Hair treatments: apply conditioning or bonding treatments to keep hair strong and healthy.
  • Aftercare advice: recommend products and routines to keep colour looking fresh at home.
  • Record keeping: note down formulas and client preferences for repeat visits.
  • Workplace hygiene: keep tools clean and the salon safe for staff and clients.

Skills for Success

To thrive as a Colourist, you need a good eye for colour. A real interest in making people look and feel great helps too. Colour theory is at the core. You need to know how shades mix and how hair reacts to different dyes. Hands-on skills like balayage, foiling, and colour correction take practice and grow with time.

Strong people skills are just as important as your technical ability. You will consult with clients every day, so being a good listener and communicating clearly makes a big difference. Attention to detail, hygiene habits, and time management all help you run a smooth, professional service. The beauty industry moves fast, so staying curious and open to new techniques will keep your career growing.

Skills & Attributes

  • Colour theory and pigment knowledge
  • Hair chemistry and product knowledge
  • Balayage, foiling, and colour application
  • Colour correction
  • Client consultation and communication
  • Attention to detail
  • Creative and artistic ability
  • Time management
  • Health and safety awareness
  • Customer service
  • Record keeping and formula documentation
  • Adaptability to new trends and products

Average Salaries

Colourists in Australia earn about $63,000 per year when working full-time. This figure is based on median weekly earnings of $1,209 (ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours, May 2025). Starting pay under the Hair and Beauty Industry Award (MA000005) begins at around $52,000 per year. Experienced specialists can earn up to $80,000 or more. Pay depends on experience, clientele, location, and salon type.

min $52 K

max $80 K

av $63 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson - Course Finder Groups
Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.