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Our Jobs and Skills Council SaCSA is hosting a virtual workshop for apprentices and qualified hairdressers or barbers to provide feedback on what’s working in the current qualifications.&nbsp;If you know any apprentices, graduates or students who might be interested, please share this post with them. The more voices they hear, the stronger and more relevant our training system becomes.Register for the Workshop here below.20 October I 3.30pm - 5.00pm - <a data-mce-href="https://events.humanitix.com/apprentice-and-graduate-voices-hairdressing-and-barbering-workshop" href="https://events.humanitix.com/apprentice-and-graduate-voices-hairdressing-and-barbering-workshop" target="_blank" rel="noopener">REGISTER</a>

Apprentice and Graduate Voices Workshop

Hair dryers put up for sale in a home appliance store

<h2>Understanding the Retailer Mindset</h2>For hair and beauty professionals, adopting a retailer mindset can be transformative. This approach involves thinking beyond the chair and seeing your salon as a holistic business entity. By viewing your services and products as part of a cohesive retail strategy, you can enhance client satisfaction and boost your revenue.It's important to recognise that your salon is a retail business, even if you don't sell physical products and only service products. At its basic definition "a retailer is a business or individual that sells goods or services directly to the end consumer." This perspective encourages you to optimise both the product and/or service aspects of your business.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-8yyvohdawwm7rcjylp"><img id="8yyvohdawwm7rcjylp" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2236277341/photo/hairstylist-cutting-clients-hair-with-scissors-in-salon-closeup.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Th7ASIqDe3qB7DCiKW_jaKJk46I4jU42zIhduhn5F1g=" alt="Hairstylist cutting client's hair with scissors in salon, closeup" title="Hairstylist cutting client's hair with scissors in salon, closeup" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2236277341/photo/hairstylist-cutting-clients-hair-with-scissors-in-salon-closeup.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Th7ASIqDe3qB7DCiKW_jaKJk46I4jU42zIhduhn5F1g=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>Creating an Inviting Retail Space</h2>One of the first steps in adopting a retailer mindset is to create an inviting retail space within your salon. This area should be easily accessible and aesthetically pleasing to encourage clients to experience and browse your products. Consider the layout, lighting, and signage to make the space inviting and easy to navigate.Product placement is crucial. The most popular items should be at eye level, while complementary products can be grouped together to encourage additional purchases. This strategic arrangement not only enhances the shopping experience but also increases the likelihood of impulse buys.<h3>Enhancing Product Knowledge</h3>Your staff plays a vital role in promoting products effectively. Ensure that they are well-versed in the benefits and uses of each product you offer. Regular training sessions and updates in morning team briefings can keep your team informed and confident in recommending products tailored to individual client needs.Encourage open dialogue between staff and clients. When clients feel that recommendations come from a place of genuine care for their needs, they are more likely to trust the advice and make purchases. This trust builds long-term client relationships and enhances your salon's reputation.<figure id="figure-qzkz8q5dlom7rck9rw"><img id="qzkz8q5dlom7rck9rw" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/10hcGFN2ulG6HS5Yq9TBUzDrcAWSyUHuZZdyTUjPEDeYC9xngMEjfZeQZBHVGBmQ.jpeg" alt="beauty products" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/10hcGFN2ulG6HS5Yq9TBUzDrcAWSyUHuZZdyTUjPEDeYC9xngMEjfZeQZBHVGBmQ.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Leveraging Technology</h2>Incorporating technology into your retail strategy can streamline operations and improve client engagement. Consider using digital point-of-sale systems that track inventory and sales trends, providing valuable insights into what products are performing well.Additionally, utilising social media platforms to showcase product highlights, promotions, and testimonials can attract new clients and keep current ones engaged. Online booking systems integrated with product recommendations can also enhance the client experience by offering convenience and personalisation.<h3>Promotions and Loyalty Programs</h3>Implementing promotions and loyalty programs can encourage repeat business and product purchases. Offer discounts on bundled services and products or create a point-based system where clients earn rewards for every purchase.Loyalty programs not only incentivise purchases but also foster a sense of community among your clients. A well-executed program keeps clients engaged with your business, resulting in increased customer retention and satisfaction.<figure id="figure-gnt7skab93m7rckk8y"><img id="gnt7skab93m7rckk8y" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/1ejNlR04C83od9YrImNzgfmntADToQJUQwWOGhBQzbxY3N0RhtSBo4xNo7sOGP6g.jpeg" alt="loyalty program" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/1ejNlR04C83od9YrImNzgfmntADToQJUQwWOGhBQzbxY3N0RhtSBo4xNo7sOGP6g.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure>Adopting a retailer mindset involves seeing your salon as a comprehensive business venture where both services and physical products make up your complete suite of retail offerings.Service based business often fall into the trap of not thinking of themselves as a "retailer." When they do the focus shifts from one of service delivery only to a sales focused retail mindset.

Adopting a Retailer Mindset

Beauty portrait of a young Asian woman with beautiful long hair

<h2>Hey Creative Business Professional - You're a Retailer</h2>As a retailer in the hair and beauty industry, you occupy a unique and pivotal role. Your position bridges the gap between innovative beauty brands and consumers eager to discover new products. This role is not just about selling products and services; it’s about creating an experience and nurturing relationships with your customers. Understanding the nuances of this position can help you thrive in a competitive marketplace.<figure id="figure-beyb1fh2iim7rceh77"><img id="beyb1fh2iim7rceh77" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/2dTdeZP4jhDAJIfcDsuJie3UgJUEXt2sjK9E4twQTNpcgrW03pYAMVCULoqcJLn2.jpeg" alt="beauty store" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/2dTdeZP4jhDAJIfcDsuJie3UgJUEXt2sjK9E4twQTNpcgrW03pYAMVCULoqcJLn2.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Connecting with Your Audience</h3>One of the most critical aspects of your role is connecting with your audience. Today’s consumers are more informed and selective than ever before. They seek authenticity and value from the brands and retailers they choose to support. Engaging with your customers through personalised experiences, social media interactions, and in-store events can help build loyalty and trust.Consider implementing loyalty programs or offering personalised consultations to make your customers feel valued. This personal touch can set your store apart from larger, impersonal retail chains and foster a sense of community among your clientele.<h2>Curating Your Product Selection</h2>As a retailer, you have the exciting opportunity to curate a selection of products and services that reflect the latest trends and meet the needs of your customers. This requires staying informed about emerging trends and innovations. By carefully selecting and curating products and services, you can position your store as a go-to destination for hair and beauty enthusiasts.<figure id="figure-trbvg4zatdm7rcemc4"><img id="trbvg4zatdm7rcemc4" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/2dTdeZP4jhDAJIfcDsuJie3UgJUEXt2sjK9E4twQTNpcgrW03pYAMVCULoqcJLn2.jpeg" alt="cosmetics display" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/2dTdeZP4jhDAJIfcDsuJie3UgJUEXt2sjK9E4twQTNpcgrW03pYAMVCULoqcJLn2.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure>Consider the diverse needs of your customer base when curating your offerings. Showcase a range of options, from clean products to cutting-edge skincare technologies, ensures that you cater to a wide audience. This diverse selection can attract different customer segments and increase sales.<h3>Creating an Inviting Store Environment</h3>Your store environment plays a crucial role in the retail experience. An inviting, well-organised space can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and encourage repeat visits. Pay attention to factors such as lighting, layout, and product displays to create a welcoming atmosphere.<ol><li>Utilise natural lighting to create a warm ambiance.</li><li>Ensure that product displays are easy to navigate and visually appealing.</li><li>Provide comfortable seating areas for customers to relax and try products.</li></ol><h2>Leveraging Digital Platforms</h2>In today’s digital age, having an online presence is essential for any retailer. Embrace e-commerce by offering an online store that complements your physical location. This not only expands your reach but also provides convenience for customers who prefer online shopping.<figure id="figure-pfy8cd8q2lm7rcex4n"><img id="pfy8cd8q2lm7rcex4n" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2235508605/photo/woman-wearing-christmas-pajamas-is-sitting-on-bed-and-buying-gifts-online-using-laptop-and.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=CN0CeuxbBYAXmMtYDCAWqyTRVTEW6nynTkIDtzh3cIw=" alt="Woman wearing christmas pajamas is sitting on bed and buying gifts online using laptop and credit card while enjoying a cup of hot beverage" title="Woman wearing christmas pajamas is sitting on bed and buying gifts online using laptop and credit card while enjoying a cup of hot beverage" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="null" data-positionY="null" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>Additionally, leverage social media platforms to engage with your audience and promote your products. Share beauty tips, product tutorials, and customer testimonials to create engaging content that resonates with your followers. Effective use of digital platforms can drive traffic both online and offline.<h3>Navigating Challenges in the Hair and Beauty Retail Industry</h3>The hair and beauty retail industry is not without its challenges. From staying competitive in pricing to adapting to rapidly changing consumer preferences, retailers must be agile and proactive. Continuously educating yourself and your staff on industry trends and best practices can help you navigate these challenges effectively.Remember, the key to success is not just about offering products but creating a memorable experience for your customers. By embracing your role as a retailer, you can build strong connections with your audience and drive long-term growth for your business.

Embracing Your Role as a Retailer in the Hair and Beauty Industry

Teacher Helping Students Training To Become Hairdressers

The NSW Government is inviting feedback on how to modernise and strengthen the state’s apprenticeship and traineeship system.A review of the Apprenticeship and Traineeship Act 2001 is now underway, with a focus on making the system easier to navigate, more flexible, and better aligned with the skills needs of today’s economy.Over the coming months, the Government will host roundtables with employers, training providers, unions, apprentices, and trainees across NSW. These discussions will help shape reforms aimed at boosting completion rates, supporting regional participation, and improving long-term career outcomes.This is an important opportunity to break down long-standing barriers and create a more responsive skills system for key sectors – including hair, barber, and beauty.📢 Make your voice heard - complete the statewide Have Your Say survey - <a data-mce-href="https://lnkd.in/gFWwHqqg" href="https://lnkd.in/gFWwHqqg">HERE</a> Complete the survey by 11:59 pm Thursday 11 September 2025

Have Your Say: Shaping the Future of Apprenticeships and Traineeships in NSW

The newly released Personal Services Workforce Plan Update 2025 by Service and Creative Skills Australia (SaCSA) provides a critical lens on the challenges and future opportunities facing the hair, beauty and barbering industries. These insights build on their 2024 Workforce Planning Reports - Shaping Tomorrow and outline their progress and next steps in developing practical solutions. For the industry this report offers valuable insights into the structural changes, skills gaps and shifting expectations shaping our sector.<figure id="figure-8ubmirpbrqmdshs25m"><img id="8ubmirpbrqmdshs25m" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1713224322/photo/golden-hairdressing-tools-scissors-combs-on-green-background-horizontal-template-with-hair.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=thMRVG48oLV3_UF9mbongTmdVFxuk24LmS2uu0RX2P8=" alt="Golden hairdressing tools scissors combs on green background. Horizontal template with hair salon accessories and copy space." title="Golden hairdressing tools scissors combs on green background. Horizontal template with hair salon accessories and copy space." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1713224322/photo/golden-hairdressing-tools-scissors-combs-on-green-background-horizontal-template-with-hair.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=thMRVG48oLV3_UF9mbongTmdVFxuk24LmS2uu0RX2P8=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Here’s what it reveals and why it matters...<h3>Key Issues Impacting the Hair, Beauty &amp; Barbering Sector</h3>Persistent Workforce Shortages Hairdressers and beauty therapists remain listed on Australia’s national Occupation Shortage List, driven largely by what SaCSA terms a “long training gap.” In 2022–23, fewer than half of advertised vacancies for hairdressers were filled, with 85 percent of applicants considered unsuitable. This shortage is unlikely to be resolved quickly given the extended duration of training required.Declining Training Enrolments Enrolments in SHB training packages have declined by over 30 percent since 2015. While qualification completions have held steadier, most workers do not continue into higher levels of training or leadership roles, limiting opportunities for career advancement and business succession.Attraction and Retention Challenges The sector continues to face high attrition rates, especially among young workers, with average tenure around 18 months. Contributing factors include low wages, limited career pathways, and poor workplace culture. A growing number of professionals are opting for self-employment, which now accounts for nearly half of hairdressers.Outdated and Inflexible Qualifications Stakeholders report that core training units are often misaligned with current practice, limiting the relevance and effectiveness of VET qualifications. There is strong industry demand to modernise the SHB package and introduce more flexible, specialisation-based pathways.Structural Shifts in Business Models The rise of salon suites, freelance operators, home-based salons and chair rental models continues to challenge traditional apprenticeship systems. These modern business formats often lack the infrastructure to host apprentices or provide structured training.Sector Trends and Emerging Opportunities Digital Skills Now Essential Digital fluency - especially in areas like social media, online booking, and salon software is now seen as critical. According to SaCSA’s 2024 survey, social media and digital marketing were identified as the top skills in demand across hair, beauty and barbering. CSRC offers Professional Certifications in Social Media Marketing.Entrepreneurial Aspirations Are Growing A significant portion of Certificate III learners express a desire to run their own businesses. Training needs to better support this shift by embedding leadership, management, and business development skills into core or elective units.Greater Inclusion and Accessibility Needed Regional and remote communities face limited training access, while barriers such as cost of living, transport, and rigid delivery formats prevent many disadvantaged learners from completing qualifications. Flexible models and modular training delivery are needed to bridge the gap.School Partnerships and Early Engagement Hairdressing qualifications are popular in VET in Schools programs, but completion rates remain low. In 2023, only 9 of 813 enrolled students completed their qualifications. Better school engagement, career showcasing, and mentorship opportunities are critical to improve retention.<figure id="figure-p130jy4548mdshtxox"><img id="p130jy4548mdshtxox" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/511776997/photo/teacher-helping-students-training-to-become-hairdressers.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=sIl1MNNgMoY0GLEMjtvI50zIxjbfaRozLEAdaibWSAo=" alt="Teacher Helping Students Training To Become Hairdressers" title="Teacher Helping Students Training To Become Hairdressers" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/511776997/photo/teacher-helping-students-training-to-become-hairdressers.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=sIl1MNNgMoY0GLEMjtvI50zIxjbfaRozLEAdaibWSAo=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>&nbsp;What Actions are Underway? SaCSA is progressing several initiatives to address these issues and reposition the sector for long-term success:1. Review of Hairdressing &amp; Barbering Qualifications A comprehensive review is underway to modernise four key qualifications (Certificate III in Hairdressing, Certificate III in Barbering, Certificate IV in Hairdressing, and Diploma of Salon Management) to ensure alignment with industry needs and remove outdated or redundant content.2. Workforce Shortage Research A targeted project is investigating the drivers of workforce shortages, apprenticeship attrition, and declining VET participation to inform evidence-based training reform.3. Unit Currency Audit This national project is reviewing superseded and deleted training units to ensure currency and relevance across the SHB, SIR, SIT, SFL, and SIF training packages.4. Career Mapping and Digital Skills Gap Analysis Upcoming initiatives will explore digital transformation, sustainability, and evolving career pathways to ensure learners are equipped for the realities of today’s working environments.The SaCSA 2025 Workforce Plan confirms that while challenges persist, there is significant momentum toward reform. The Creative Skills Retail Council is committed to supporting these efforts through our impact-driven programs. Access the Full Report - <a data-mce-href="https://sacsa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/SaCSA-Personal-Services-Workforce-Plan-Update-2025-Compressed.pdf.pdf" href="https://sacsa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/SaCSA-Personal-Services-Workforce-Plan-Update-2025-Compressed.pdf.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE.</a>Source: © SaCSA, Progress in Action: Personal Services Workforce Plan Update, 2025.

Key Insights from SaCSA’s Progress in Action: Personal Services Workforce Plan Update, 2025.

Human Crowd Surrounding Red Megaphone Object On Blue Background

As of mid-2025, the Australian hairdressing, beauty, and barbering industry - particularly in regional areas and small business settings - continues to face compounding workforce and economic challenges.The Creative Skills Retail Council (CSRC) advocates for policy settings that support small business operators, protect emerging professionals, and drive long-term industry sustainability.CSRC has conducted research on the most pressing sector concerns and shared their findings in the CSRC Member Portal.&nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://mycsrc.arma-academy.com/login/" href="https://mycsrc.arma-academy.com/login/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">LOGIN HERE</a><a href="https://www.retail.org.au/ara-federal-election-priorities" data-mce-href="https://www.retail.org.au/ara-federal-election-priorities"></a>

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Apprentice and Graduate Voices Workshop

Adopting a Retailer Mindset

Embracing Your Role as a Retailer in the Hair and Beauty ...

Have Your Say: Shaping the Future of Apprenticeships and ...

Key Insights from SaCSA’s Progress in Action: Personal Se...

June 2025 - Your Voice