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Hairdresser Salary in Darwin

Service

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

Average Salary
$54,600
per year
Take-Home Pay
$46,340
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$44-79k
$55K
$44K$79K

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 Darwin

Based on the average Hairdresser salary of $54,600 in Darwin, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$54,600$54,600
Income Tax-$7,168-$7,168
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,092-$1,092
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$546
Superannuation (11%)+$6,006+$6,006
Annual Take-Home$46,340$45,794
Monthly Take-Home$3,862$3,816
Fortnightly Take-Home$1,782$1,761

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.

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Your salary
$55,000
Take-home$46,340
Tax-$7,168
Super+$6,006

How to Become a Hairdresser

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Hairdresser in Northern Territory.

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
$27KEntry$55KMid$66KSenior$82KLead
Entry Level

Apprentice Hairdresser

$27,300
estimated in Darwin
0-3 years
Mid Level

Qualified Hairdresser

$54,600
estimated in Darwin
3-7 years
Senior Level

Senior Stylist / Specialist

$65,520
estimated in Darwin
7-12 years
Leadership

Salon Manager / Owner

$81,900
estimated in Darwin
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 Darwin

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

Entry Level
$22/hr
Average
$28/hr
Senior
$40/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Hairdresser earn in Darwin?

The average Hairdresser salary in Darwin is $54,600 per year, or approximately $28 per hour. Salaries range from $44,100 to $78,750 depending on experience.

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

A Hairdresser earning $54,600 in Darwin takes home approximately $46,340 per year after tax, or $3,862 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $45,794 per year.

How much do Hairdressers make per hour in Darwin?

Hairdressers in Darwin earn approximately $28 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $22/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $40/hour.

Is Darwin a good place to work as a Hairdresser?

Darwin offers Hairdresser salaries among the highest in Australia at $54,600. The city has a cost of living index of 95 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Hairdresser Salaries in Darwin

The average Hairdresser in Darwin, Northern Territory earns $54,600 per year, or approximately $28 per hour. Salaries typically range from $44,100 for entry-level positions to $78,750 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Hairdresser earning the average salary in Darwin can expect to take home approximately $46,340 per year, or $3,862 per month.

Darwin is home to approximately 150,000 people and has a cost of living index of 95 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Darwin are lower Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Hairdresser Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $44,100, while senior roles can reach $78,750.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Hairdresser roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Darwin's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Hairdressers earn $$22-$40 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.