Join Australia's most supportive hairdressing community
Access the tools you need to achieve your business goals
Join Australia's most supportive hairdressing community
Access the tools you need to achieve your business goals
Expert
Guidance
Direct access to industry people, specialised and knowledgeable, offering invaluable insights, up to date information, and accurate advice to manage the day-to-day responsibilities of business.
Community
Support
Be part of our network of the salon industry professionals, sharing experiences and solutions to the wide variety of challenges business owners face today.
Commitment
to Growth
We are your industry voice to government, advocating for change to benefit sustainable growth through initiatives to support small business.
Business
Resources
Access the comprehensive resources 24/7 including HR documents, management tools, links to state and national government sites, specifically for our industry.
When you are great at hair, but need some help with running your salon.
When you are great at hair, but need some help with running
your salon.
There are a lot of moving parts to a successful salon. The AHC offers the help you need so that you work towards building a great salon.
Unlock Everything You Need for Salon Success with One Membership
Access support crafted to streamline your life and elevate your business success.
Unlock Everything You Need for Salon Success with One Membership
Access support crafted to streamline your life and elevate your business success.
Unlock Everything You Need for Salon Success with One Membership
Access support crafted to streamline your life and elevate your business success.
Become a Confident Salon Leader with an AHC Membership.
* All membership pricing GST inclusive
SALON SELECT
BARBER SELECT
Our team of industry specific HR experts are here to address your workplace and employment queries promptly. Unlimited calls to get answers when you need them!
Showcase your business to consumers searching for an AHC member accredited salon.
Exclusive rates with renowned partners, such as CBA, Afterpay, and American Express. Competitive rates on insurance, utilities, legal counsel, and leasing advice, designed to save you both time and money.
Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts from our network of associates, creating opportunities for additional savings and exclusive rewards.
Dive into the Human Resources section on the AHC website for a comprehensive range of operational insights, IR updates, templates, contracts, and more. This library, tailored to suit your specific needs, regularly updated to support you and your business effectively.
Stand out, stand proud with National AHC accreditation, optimising your business practices, when you attain Green, Silver, and Gold accreditation. Showcase your salon to clients, staff, and assist with recruitment through demonstrating continuous improvement.
Industry Day, Leadership Summit and Schmoozefest, the must attend exclusive events of the industry calendar.
Receive monthly newsletters from the AHC, delivering relevant and valuable insights directly to your inbox.
Our exclusive and highly engaged private Facebook page for round-the-clock support and networking opportunities with industry peers. Exchange advice, gain valuable insights, and connect with likeminded business owners to foster growth and success.
Franchisor’s head office team have access to HR advisory service to guide their franchisee network. A franchisee connected to an active AHC Franchisor membership are eligible for a HR Advisory only membership.
solo owner select
Exclusive access to Facebook group, join the conversation, and connect to gain insights from industry peers.
Exclusive rates with renowned partners, such as CBA, Afterpay, and American Express. Competitive rates on insurance, utilities, legal counsel, and leasing advice, designed to save you both time and money.
Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts from our network of associates, creating opportunities for additional savings and exclusive rewards.
Access to templates, policies, and procedures tailored to your needs.
Industry Day, Leadership Summit and Schmoozefest, must attend exclusive events of the industry calendar.
Stand out with National AHC accreditation, communicating trust and quality to clients. optimize your business practices.
Our team of industry specific HR experts are here to address your workplace and employment queries promptly. Unlimited calls to get answers when you need them!
Showcase your business to consumers searching for an AHC member accredited salon.
Exclusive rates with renowned partners, such as CBA, Afterpay, and American Express. Competitive rates on insurance, utilities, legal counsel, and leasing advice, designed to save you both time and money.
Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts from our network of associates, creating opportunities for additional savings and exclusive rewards.
Dive into the Human Resources section on the AHC website for a comprehensive range of operational insights, IR updates, templates, contracts, and more. This library, tailored to suit your specific needs, regularly updated to support you and your business effectively.
Stand out, stand proud with National AHC accreditation, optimising your business practices, when you attain Green, Silver, and Gold accreditation. Showcase your salon to clients, staff, and assist with recruitment through demonstrating continuous improvement.
Industry Day, Leadership Summit and Schmoozefest, the must attend exclusive events of the industry calendar.
Receive monthly newsletters from the AHC, delivering relevant and valuable insights directly to your inbox.
Our exclusive and highly engaged private Facebook page for round-the-clock support and networking opportunities with industry peers. Exchange advice, gain valuable insights, and connect with likeminded business owners to foster growth and success.
Franchisor’s head office team have access to HR advisory service to guide their franchisee network. A franchisee connected to an active AHC Franchisor membership are eligible for a HR Advisory only membership.
associate
Showcase your business to consumers searching for an AHC member directory.
Get your event listed on the AHC calendar of events, tell the industry!
By invitation.
Event Promotion.
Share what’s new with products and services with our members.
Industry Day, Leadership Summit and Schmoozefest, the must attend exclusive events of the industry calendar to build your network.
Of Exclusive Offers
Member-Listing Only Inclusions:
- Business Directory Listing on the AHC website.
- Connection to our private member community social page.
- Member pricing at AHC events.
Your teacher membership grants you direct access to the latest industry news, valuable resources, and invaluable connections.
Join regular Education & Training meetings, involved in the discussions that are taking place in our industry.
Exclusive access to Facebook group, join the conversation, and connect to gain insights from industry peers.
Stay in the loop with our E-newsletters featuring RTO member achievements, industry updates, and survey
Explore the Education Hub and Events section on the AHC website for a treasure trove of educational materials and upcoming event details.
Mark your calendar for our annual AHC Industry Day, Leadership Summit, and Schmoozefest. These events offer unparalleled opportunities to connect and collaborate with RTOs, industry educators, salon owners, and esteemed guest speakers. Previous keynote presentations have featured prominent figures such as the Minister for VET and Small Business, ASQA, NCVER, Apprenticeship Support Australia, and Skills IQ.
Your teacher membership grants you direct access to the latest industry news, valuable resources, and invaluable connections.
Join regular Education & Training meetings, involved in the discussions that are taking place in our industry.
Exclusive access to Facebook group, join the conversation, and connect to gain insights from industry peers.
Stay in the loop with our E-newsletters featuring RTO member achievements, industry updates, and survey
Explore the Education Hub and Events section on the AHC website for a treasure trove of educational materials and upcoming event details.
Mark your calendar for our annual AHC Industry Day, Leadership Summit, and Schmoozefest. These events offer unparalleled opportunities to connect and collaborate with RTOs, industry educators, salon owners, and esteemed guest speakers. Previous keynote presentations have featured prominent figures such as the Minister for VET and Small Business, ASQA, NCVER, Apprenticeship Support Australia, and Skills IQ.
Become a Confident Salon Leader with an AHC Membership
* All membership pricing GST inclusive
Become a Confident Salon Leader with an
AHC Membership
* All membership pricing GST inclusive
SALON SELECT
Our team of industry specific HR experts are here to address your workplace and employment queries promptly. Unlimited calls to get answers when you need them!
Showcase your business to consumers searching for an AHC member accredited salon.
Exclusive rates with renowned partners, such as CBA, Afterpay, and American Express. Competitive rates on insurance, utilities, legal counsel, and leasing advice, designed to save you both time and money.
Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts from our network of associates, creating opportunities for additional savings and exclusive rewards.
Dive into the Human Resources section on the AHC website for a comprehensive range of operational insights, IR updates, templates, contracts, and more. This library, tailored to suit your specific needs, regularly updated to support you and your business effectively.
Stand out, stand proud with National AHC accreditation, optimising your business practices, when you attain Green, Silver, and Gold accreditation. Showcase your salon to clients, staff, and assist with recruitment through demonstrating continuous improvement.
Industry Day, Leadership Summit and Schmoozefest, the must attend exclusive events of the industry calendar.
Receive monthly newsletters from the AHC, delivering relevant and valuable insights directly to your inbox.
Our exclusive and highly engaged private Facebook page for round-the-clock support and networking opportunities with industry peers. Exchange advice, gain valuable insights, and connect with likeminded business owners to foster growth and success.
Franchisor’s head office team have access to HR advisory service to guide their franchisee network. A franchisee connected to an active AHC Franchisor membership are eligible for a HR Advisory only membership.
solo owner select
Exclusive access to Facebook group, join the conversation, and connect to gain insights from industry peers.
Exclusive rates with renowned partners, such as CBA, Afterpay, and American Express. Competitive rates on insurance, utilities, legal counsel, and leasing advice, designed to save you both time and money.
Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts from our network of associates, creating opportunities for additional savings and exclusive rewards.
Access to templates, policies, and procedures tailored to your needs.
Industry Day, Leadership Summit and Schmoozefest, must attend exclusive events of the industry calendar.
Stand out with National AHC accreditation, communicating trust and quality to clients. optimize your business practices.
Franchise
Description
For franchises or salon groups with five or more locations. We offer tailored support for both franchisors and their individual franchisees. Our exclusive 5-Star Gold Salon Select Program helps streamline your operations and boost your brand across multiple sites.
Our team of industry specific HR experts are here to address your workplace and employment queries promptly. Unlimited calls to get answers when you need them!
Showcase your business to consumers searching for an AHC member accredited salon.
Exclusive rates with renowned partners, such as CBA, Afterpay, and American Express. Competitive rates on insurance, utilities, legal counsel, and leasing advice, designed to save you both time and money.
Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts from our network of associates, creating opportunities for additional savings and exclusive rewards.
Dive into the Human Resources section on the AHC website for a comprehensive range of operational insights, IR updates, templates, contracts, and more. This library, tailored to suit your specific needs, regularly updated to support you and your business effectively.
Stand out, stand proud with National AHC accreditation, optimising your business practices, when you attain Green, Silver, and Gold accreditation. Showcase your salon to clients, staff, and assist with recruitment through demonstrating continuous improvement.
Industry Day, Leadership Summit and Schmoozefest, the must attend exclusive events of the industry calendar.
Receive monthly newsletters from the AHC, delivering relevant and valuable insights directly to your inbox.
Our exclusive and highly engaged private Facebook page for round-the-clock support and networking opportunities with industry peers. Exchange advice, gain valuable insights, and connect with likeminded business owners to foster growth and success.
Franchisor’s head office team have access to HR advisory service to guide their franchisee network. A franchisee connected to an active AHC Franchisor membership are eligible for a HR Advisory only membership.
associate
Showcase your business to consumers searching for an AHC member directory.
Get your event listed on the AHC calendar of events, tell the industry!
By invitation.
Event Promotion.
Share what’s new with products and services with our members.
Industry Day, Leadership Summit and Schmoozefest, the must attend exclusive events of the industry calendar to build your network.
Of Exclusive Offers
Your teacher membership grants you direct access to the latest industry news, valuable resources, and invaluable connections.
Join regular Education & Training meetings, involved in the discussions that are taking place in our industry.
Exclusive access to Facebook group, join the conversation, and connect to gain insights from industry peers.
Stay in the loop with our E-newsletters featuring RTO member achievements, industry updates, and survey
Explore the Education Hub and Events section on the AHC website for a treasure trove of educational materials and upcoming event details.
Mark your calendar for our annual AHC Industry Day, Leadership Summit, and Schmoozefest. These events offer unparalleled opportunities to connect and collaborate with RTOs, industry educators, salon owners, and esteemed guest speakers. Previous keynote presentations have featured prominent figures such as the Minister for VET and Small Business, ASQA, NCVER, Apprenticeship Support Australia, and Skills IQ.
Your teacher membership grants you direct access to the latest industry news, valuable resources, and invaluable connections.
Join regular Education & Training meetings, involved in the discussions that are taking place in our industry.
Exclusive access to Facebook group, join the conversation, and connect to gain insights from industry peers.
Stay in the loop with our E-newsletters featuring RTO member achievements, industry updates, and survey
Explore the Education Hub and Events section on the AHC website for a treasure trove of educational materials and upcoming event details.
Mark your calendar for our annual AHC Industry Day, Leadership Summit, and Schmoozefest. These events offer unparalleled opportunities to connect and collaborate with RTOs, industry educators, salon owners, and esteemed guest speakers. Previous keynote presentations have featured prominent figures such as the Minister for VET and Small Business, ASQA, NCVER, Apprenticeship Support Australia, and Skills IQ.
H.A.I.R.
At H.A.I.R, our mission is to spotlight and advocate for qualified, professional hairdressers and apprentices operating within compliant business frameworks. Your affiliation with H.A.I.R, in partnership with The Australian Hairdressing Council, not only underscores your expertise and credentials, but also instils confidence in both your clients and employers.
- the professionalism of our industry.
- qualified professionals for positive industry-wide changes.
- a respected reputation for hairdressers nationwide.
- with national consumer awareness initiatives.
- industry standards.
- consumers against unqualified practitioners in non-compliant establishments.
H.A.I.R. was created in direct response to industry feedback of more than 1800 industry members. 95% of those surveyed believed that the Australian hairdressing industry should be registered to protect its reputation and integrity and safeguard consumers from unqualified hair practitioners that do not meet industry standards. If you are a qualified hairdresser or apprentice working in a compliant business, join H.A.I.R. and receive a digital certificate to give your customers and employer confidence in your skills and qualification. H.A.I.R. is free to join and provides access to resources to support you to be your best.
As the foremost authority for hairdressing and barbering, the AHC stands as the primary resource for media enquiries and governmental consultations within our sector, advocating on behalf of business owners nationwide.
What sets the AHC apart is our personal touch — enquiries are met by industry insiders. Our team comprises experienced hairdressers, former salon owners, and educators who deeply understand the unique challenges and joys of the hairdressing profession.
Everything You Need To Build A Great Team and a Thriving Salon
Understanding Business Fundamentals:
Guidance on managing finances, marketing strategies, and customer service excellence.
HR and Staff Management:
Support in recruiting skilled staff, fostering a positive work environment, and navigating employment laws.
Efficient Operations:
Tips on streamlining salon operations, from appointment scheduling to inventory management.
Financial Planning:
Advice on budgeting, pricing strategies, and maximising profitability.
Marketing Your Salon:
Creative ideas for promoting your salon, building a brand identity, and engaging with clients through social media and other platforms.
Navigating Industry Challenges:
Insights into overcoming common obstacles in the hairdressing business, such as competition and market trends.
Continued Education
Opportunities for ongoing professional development in both hairdressing skills and business management.
Legal Compliance:
Assistance with understanding and adhering to industry regulations and standards.
Networking Opportunities:
Access to a community of fellow salon owners for shared learning and support.
Everything You Need To Build A Great Team and a Thriving Salon
Understanding Business Fundamentals:
Guidance on managing finances, marketing strategies, and customer service excellence.
HR and Staff Management:
Support in recruiting skilled staff, fostering a positive work environment, and navigating employment laws.
Efficient Operations:
Tips on streamlining salon operations, from appointment scheduling to inventory management.
Financial Planning:
Advice on budgeting, pricing strategies, and maximising profitability
Marketing Your Salon:
Creative ideas for promoting your salon, building a brand identity, and engaging with clients through social media and other platforms.
Navigating Industry Challenges:
Insights into overcoming common obstacles in the hairdressing business, such as competition and market trends.
Continued Education:
Opportunities for ongoing professional development in both hairdressing skills and business management.
Legal Compliance:
Assistance with understanding and adhering to industry regulations and standards.
Networking Opportunities:
Access to a community of fellow salon owners for shared learning and support.
Getting Your Salon On The Right Path
1
Connect and Collaborate
Book a call and engage with our community of hairdressing professionals. Join and go through an onboarding and welcome introduction.
2
Access
The Resources
You Need
Utilise our tailor-made resources, including business management tools, HR support, and policy templates, specifically designed for the needs of the hairdressing industry.
3
Elevate
Through
Accreditation
Achieve recognition and distinction in the hairdressing industry through our accreditation process, enhancing your salon’s credibility and setting a benchmark for excellence and professionalism.
Getting Your Salon On The Right Path
1
Connect and
Collaborate
Book a call and engage with our community of hairdressing professionals. Join and go through an onboarding and welcome introduction.
2
access the resources you need
Utilise our tailor-made resources, including business management tools, HR support, and policy templates, specifically designed for the needs of the hairdressing industry.
3
elevate through accreditation
Achieve recognition and distinction in the hairdressing industry through our accreditation process, enhancing your salon’s credibility and setting a benchmark for excellence and professionalism.
You have dreamed of a smooth running salon that allows you the opportunity to make the money you deserve while spending cherished time with those you love.
You have dreamed of a smooth running salon that allows you the opportunity to make the money you deserve while spending cherished time with those you love.
You have dreamed of a smooth running salon that allows you the opportunity to make the money you deserve while spending cherished time with those you love.
FAQs
Who can join the AHC?
<span data-metadata=""><span data-buffer="">The Australian Hairdressing Council has several types of memberships available for passionate hair, beauty, barbers and industry advocates:
SALONS BUSINESSES
If you employ, contract or rent chairs, then Salon Select membership is for you. Salons that join the AHC are known as ‘Salon Select’. Membership starts at Red status, then via an accreditation process your business can become Silver or Gold Salon Select, depending on which standards your salon business meets. Green Salon Select status is also available for salons with eco-friendly practices. Accreditation from an industry association says that you are a reputable and quality salon. AHC Salon Select membership is the perfect vehicle to promote that you run a professional compliant business to your local community. And without staff, you are eligible for SOS.
Single Owner Select (SOS) Membership
SOLO OWNER SELECT
If you are an independent stylist, a freelancer, solo operator with a compliant home business or perhaps in a rent-a-chair arrangement within another business, you are eligible for SOS. We welcome you to join our community of salons, suppliers, educators and creatives all working together to ensure that the Australian hairdressing industry remains a worldwide leader in our craft.
Associate Membership
ALLIED INDUSTRY BUSINESSES
The AHC has a wide spectrum of businesses that enjoy the benefits of being an Associate Member by connecting with thousands of salons around Australia to promote their product or service. These range from salon supplies (furniture, products, tools, food and beverage, uniforms, software companies and many more) through to allied services (marketing, photography, business coaches, educators, PR and creative agencies to name a few). Three levels of membership including member listing, the solopreneur business and company. AHC Associate Membership could open a whole new world for your business!
Franchise Membership
FRANCHISE / SALON GROUPS
A franchisor membership opens the door to a wealth of resources and support tailored to help you support your network, providing industry specific advice to be compliant, and current to the ever-changing business landscape. Franchisees can become a Salon Select member or opt for a HR advisory membership when the franchisor becomes a member. Salon groups of five or more salons come under this level of membership.
RTO Select Membership
REGISTERED TRAINING ORGANISATIONS
This is for Registered Training Organisations, both private and public. Connect with salon employers, other RTOs, educators, government and industry players who influence future directions in the Training Package reviews, assessment strategies and education. Take advantage of direct access to the latest industry news, resources and invaluable connections.
Teacher Membership
TEACHERS
If you are a teacher at a private college or TAFE, you are also welcome at the AHC. For a very moderate annual fee, you can keep abreast of the latest developments in the world of Education and Training and have your say with key industry players on vital plans for the future of your students. Network with likeminded associates and have access to valuable resources and news.
What does the AHC do for the industry?
Small businesses require strong representation at all levels of Government, as well as to other organisations whose policies and decisions affect their industry.
The AHC is the voice of our industry with holistic representation covering skills and education, industrial and employment relations, immigration, and all small business matters. Our hairdressing industry needs credible representation at all levels of Government and the media. Our cause is to support all stakeholders for the betterment of the industry.
The AHC is also a proud member and contributor to COSBOA, Council of Small Business Organisations of Australia.
The AHC undertakes extensive advocacy and lobbying, and ensures it is engaged and present at a Government level so that our industry is not overlooked when it comes to important decisions.
We are active in the lobbying and consultancy space, including the following:
- Keeping hairdressing on the Skills Migration List.
- Feedback on Vocation and Education and Training Reform ( VET )
- Industrial reforms and changes affecting small businesses.
- Apprenticeships, Incentives and Employment.
- Federal and State Government engagement on the recovery of natural disasters and the pandemic.
- Creating a Case for Change, consulting with RTOs and Industry for a new Training Package for Hairdressing and Barbering.
What makes the Australian Hairdressing Council stand out from other associations? The difference with the AHC is that an industry person will respond to your query. Our team members are all hairdressers, business owners and/or educators, and have an understanding of what it’s like to stand in your shoes.
The hairdressing industry landscape has evolved over the last 10 years. The way many do business has changed, with the increase of solopreneurs, rent a chair operators, freelance stylists, contractors, studio and suite locations, and home business operators. With 95% of our industry being female, flexible work arrangements have become a necessity for many.
The AHC as an Association adapts to this changing landscape by understanding the needs for these business models. The AHC acts as a connection to these businesses to encourage inclusivity so that no business or individual feels isolated, but instead, supported.
The skills in our industry are reliant on employing and training apprentices and upskilling our industry, as well as sponsored migrants bringing in unique skills. Change is permanent in hairdressing and barbering. The most successful stylists never stop learning and never stop educating.
Who runs the AHC?
The Australian Hairdressing Council is a not-for-profit industry association. The affairs of the Council are controlled, managed by, or under the direction of the Board of Directors and bound by our Constitution, which governs a set of fundamental principles or established precedents that the AHC is run by.
How Much is AHC Membership?
Your best business investment
Just as there are several AHC membership types, there are also various membership prices, depending on what type of business yours is. All memberships are for a minimum of 12 months. Salon Select membership works out to be about the same as the investment in your daily cup of coffee, or less. Associate Memberships are available for solopreneurs and companies. For more information on pricing visit the Memberships page.
What Will I Get Out of My Membership?
The AHC understands that all business owners need to be informed and supported with industry changes or employee advice. Salon owners join the AHC as ‘Salon Select’ members and gain access to the following, plus so much more:
- Specialised Workplace Advisory Team advising on all employment and Award queries
- Over 400 resources covering crucial operational information including pay tables and IR changes
- Employee management ideas and templates
- Policies and Procedures covering your salon culture
- Valuable support, opportunity, insight and inspiration in many areas as you forge ahead in your business
- A support network of industry peers at your fingertips via a 24/7 online forum
- Consumer recognition that your salon is amongst the very best in Australia
- Accreditation as a GOLD or SILVER Salon Select salon, as well as GREEN accreditation for eco-friendly salon warriors
- Access to seminars, speakers, business insight and creative education opportunities at discounted AHC membership prices
- Peace of mind that you are part of a community of likeminded business owners that will support and help you throughout your business journey.
Here’s what our members have to say…
“I love being part of a community of my peers and knowing we are all going through the same things.”
<span data-metadata=""><span data-buffer="">Why join RTO Select?
As an RTO Select member, you will gain access to the following:
- Recognition that your RTO is amongst the very best in Australia.
- Accreditation as an RTO Select member for promotion to industry and consumers as a quality provider of education.
- Valuable support, opportunity, insight and inspiration from our industry.
- Timely information on industry events and regulations.
- Access to seminars, speakers, business insight and creative education opportunities at AHC membership prices.
- Visibility of and communication, engagement and consultation with Industry with awareness of salon interests regarding Education and Training.
- Be well informed with correct and timely industry information
Liaise nationally with Industry via our private forums. - Opportunities for professional development via AHC seminars keeping abreast of change for record of currency and continuous improvement.
- Ability to participate in a broad forum with owners, hairdressers and other teachers in a support network of peers.
- Access to resources for educational delivery and teacher interest area.
FAQs
Who can join the AHC?
<span data-metadata=""><span data-buffer="">The Australian Hairdressing Council has several types of memberships available for passionate hair, beauty, barbers and industry advocates:
SALONS BUSINESSES
If you employ, contract or rent chairs, then Salon Select membership is for you. Salons that join the AHC are known as ‘Salon Select’. Membership starts at Red status, then via an accreditation process your business can become Silver or Gold Salon Select, depending on which standards your salon business meets. Green Salon Select status is also available for salons with eco-friendly practices. Accreditation from an industry association says that you are a reputable and quality salon. AHC Salon Select membership is the perfect vehicle to promote that you run a professional compliant business to your local community. And without staff, you are eligible for SOS.
Single Owner Select (SOS) Membership
SOLO OWNER SELECT
If you are an independent stylist, a freelancer, solo operator with a compliant home business or perhaps in a rent-a-chair arrangement within another business, you are eligible for SOS. We welcome you to join our community of salons, suppliers, educators and creatives all working together to ensure that the Australian hairdressing industry remains a worldwide leader in our craft.
Associate Membership
ALLIED INDUSTRY BUSINESSES
The AHC has a wide spectrum of businesses that enjoy the benefits of being an Associate Member by connecting with thousands of salons around Australia to promote their product or service. These range from salon supplies (furniture, products, tools, food and beverage, uniforms, software companies and many more) through to allied services (marketing, photography, business coaches, educators, PR and creative agencies to name a few). Three levels of membership including member listing, the solopreneur business and company. AHC Associate Membership could open a whole new world for your business!
Franchise Membership
FRANCHISE / SALON GROUPS
A franchisor membership opens the door to a wealth of resources and support tailored to help you support your network, providing industry specific advice to be compliant, and current to the ever-changing business landscape. Franchisees can become a Salon Select member or opt for a HR advisory membership when the franchisor becomes a member. Salon groups of five or more salons come under this level of membership.
RTO Select Membership
REGISTERED TRAINING ORGANISATIONS
This is for Registered Training Organisations, both private and public. Connect with salon employers, other RTOs, educators, government and industry players who influence future directions in the Training Package reviews, assessment strategies and education. Take advantage of direct access to the latest industry news, resources and invaluable connections.
Teacher Membership
TEACHERS
If you are a teacher at a private college or TAFE, you are also welcome at the AHC. For a very moderate annual fee, you can keep abreast of the latest developments in the world of Education and Training and have your say with key industry players on vital plans for the future of your students. Network with likeminded associates and have access to valuable resources and news.
What does the AHC do for the industry?
Small businesses require strong representation at all levels of Government, as well as to other organisations whose policies and decisions affect their industry.
The AHC is the voice of our industry with holistic representation covering skills and education, industrial and employment relations, immigration, and all small business matters. Our hairdressing industry needs credible representation at all levels of Government and the media. Our cause is to support all stakeholders for the betterment of the industry.
The AHC is also a proud member and contributor to COSBOA, Council of Small Business Organisations of Australia.
The AHC undertakes extensive advocacy and lobbying, and ensures it is engaged and present at a Government level so that our industry is not overlooked when it comes to important decisions.
We are active in the lobbying and consultancy space, including the following:
- Keeping hairdressing on the Skills Migration List.
- Feedback on Vocation and Education and Training Reform ( VET )
- Industrial reforms and changes affecting small businesses.
- Apprenticeships, Incentives and Employment.
- Federal and State Government engagement on the recovery of natural disasters and the pandemic.
- Creating a Case for Change, consulting with RTOs and Industry for a new Training Package for Hairdressing and Barbering.
What makes the Australian Hairdressing Council stand out from other associations? The difference with the AHC is that an industry person will respond to your query. Our team members are all hairdressers, business owners and/or educators, and have an understanding of what it’s like to stand in your shoes.
The hairdressing industry landscape has evolved over the last 10 years. The way many do business has changed, with the increase of solopreneurs, rent a chair operators, freelance stylists, contractors, studio and suite locations, and home business operators. With 95% of our industry being female, flexible work arrangements have become a necessity for many.
The AHC as an Association adapts to this changing landscape by understanding the needs for these business models. The AHC acts as a connection to these businesses to encourage inclusivity so that no business or individual feels isolated, but instead, supported.
The skills in our industry are reliant on employing and training apprentices and upskilling our industry, as well as sponsored migrants bringing in unique skills. Change is permanent in hairdressing and barbering. The most successful stylists never stop learning and never stop educating.
Who runs the AHC?
The Australian Hairdressing Council is a not-for-profit industry association. The affairs of the Council are controlled, managed by, or under the direction of the Board of Directors and bound by our Constitution, which governs a set of fundamental principles or established precedents that the AHC is run by.
How Much is AHC Membership?
Your best business investment
Just as there are several AHC membership types, there are also various membership prices, depending on what type of business yours is. All memberships are for a minimum of 12 months. Salon Select membership works out to be about the same as the investment in your daily cup of coffee, or less. Associate Memberships are available for solopreneurs and companies. For more information on pricing visit the Memberships page.
What Will I Get Out of My Membership?
The AHC understands that all business owners need to be informed and supported with industry changes or employee advice. Salon owners join the AHC as ‘Salon Select’ members and gain access to the following, plus so much more:
- Specialised Workplace Advisory Team advising on all employment and Award queries
- Over 400 resources covering crucial operational information including pay tables and IR changes
- Employee management ideas and templates
- Policies and Procedures covering your salon culture
- Valuable support, opportunity, insight and inspiration in many areas as you forge ahead in your business
- A support network of industry peers at your fingertips via a 24/7 online forum
- Consumer recognition that your salon is amongst the very best in Australia
- Accreditation as a GOLD or SILVER Salon Select salon, as well as GREEN accreditation for eco-friendly salon warriors
- Access to seminars, speakers, business insight and creative education opportunities at discounted AHC membership prices
- Peace of mind that you are part of a community of likeminded business owners that will support and help you throughout your business journey.
Here’s what our members have to say…
“I love being part of a community of my peers and knowing we are all going through the same things.”
<span data-metadata=""><span data-buffer="">Why join RTO Select?
As an RTO Select member, you will gain access to the following:
- Recognition that your RTO is amongst the very best in Australia.
- Accreditation as an RTO Select member for promotion to industry and consumers as a quality provider of education.
- Valuable support, opportunity, insight and inspiration from our industry.
- Timely information on industry events and regulations.
- Access to seminars, speakers, business insight and creative education opportunities at AHC membership prices.
- Visibility of and communication, engagement and consultation with Industry with awareness of salon interests regarding Education and Training.
- Be well informed with correct and timely industry information
Liaise nationally with Industry via our private forums. - Opportunities for professional development via AHC seminars keeping abreast of change for record of currency and continuous improvement.
- Ability to participate in a broad forum with owners, hairdressers and other teachers in a support network of peers.
- Access to resources for educational delivery and teacher interest area.