Starting a beauty, hair or nail business in Australia
Last reviewed 2026-07-17
Beauty and personal care businesses are popular start-ups, but council health rules and hygiene standards matter as much as Instagram.
1. Council and health registrations
Skin penetration (needles, some piercing, extractions treatments), hairdressing and similar services often need council registration or notification. Requirements vary by council — check ABLIS and your local council before you fit out.
ABLIS — Australian Business Licence and Information Service
2. Premises and home studios
- Commercial lease: check zoning, plumbing, waste and signage
- Home studio: ask council about home business rules and parking
- Mobile beauty: vehicle storage of chemicals and council rules still apply
3. Insurance and hygiene
- Public liability and treatment risk cover
- Sterilisation / single-use consumables processes
- Patch tests and consent forms where relevant
- Clear aftercare instructions
4. ABN, GST and pricing
Get an ABN, register a business name if needed, and watch the GST threshold as you grow. Price menu packages with product costs and appointment gaps in mind.
5. Getting clients
- Google Business Profile with booking link and strong photos
- Instagram portfolio + Stories of openings this week
- Ask every happy client for a Google review
- Referral offer with clear terms
TipUse the marketing check and content idea generator for a week-one client plan.
Heads upHealth and council rules are location-specific. Confirm before you take bookings.