How to Become a Nail Technician in Australia: Your Future Starts at Demi

Mad about manicures? If you’ve ever dreamt of turning your love for nails into a thriving career, now’s the perfect time to get started. As a qualified nail technician, you’ll have the chance to showcase your creativity, stay on top of the latest trends and make your clients feel fabulous –  all while generating an income. 

At Demi International, we offer a comprehensive nail technology certificate designed to give you a head start in this exciting field. Delivered online or blended face-to-face, eligible Queensland students may be able to access Government funding to help with the cost of getting started.

With the beauty industry booming in Australia, now’s the time to get qualified and carve out a new, rewarding career.

Nail technician: why it’s a smart career move

Becoming a nail technician doesn’t just make you an uber-popular friend…it can also open up a multitude of career opportunities.

Qualified nail technicians, also known as nail artists, have the opportunity to work across many diverse environments, from high-end salons and the influencer space, to home-based or mobile businesses. This flexibility also gives you greater control over the hours you work and your income potential, with minimal overhead costs to absorb as you go.

What does a nail artist do?

To be a successful nail technician, you’ll need to know the everyday role requirements and also excel in customer service, communication and hygiene management. Understanding nail health and conditions will allow you to advise customers on the most effective and safest products and services. 

To understand how to become a nail technician with a diverse skill set, here are some of the core tasks you’ll need to master:

• Performing manicures and pedicures to enhance nail appearance and provide a pampering experience.
• Filing, buffing, shaping nails, caring for cuticles, and applying polish or artificial nails during manicures.
• Including foot baths and scrubs in pedicures to soften skin and improve nail health.
• Applying advanced nail techniques like acrylics, gels, shellac, and dip powders to enhance and strengthen nails.
• Creating intricate nail art using various materials and techniques for personalised designs.
• Providing ongoing nail maintenance, including refills and touch-ups, to keep nails looking their best.
• Offering hand and foot massages to promote relaxation and improve circulation.

And of course, you’ll be trained to provide a clean, safe treatment space that meets industry standards and best practices. Your commitment to hygiene and safety will ensure your clients feel comfortable and confident in your care.

Nail artist qualification requirements

While you don’t need a licence or qualification to become a nail technician in Australia, completing a nationally recognised nail training course will certainly give your career a head start. Most reputable salons will request a nail artist qualification or beauty qualification to ensure high-standards are being met. 

The skills and hands-on experience you’ll learn at Demi International will help you stand out from the crowd, and give you a headstart to become an in-demand nail artist. 

Our Certificate III in Nail Technology covers everything from basic nail care to advanced nail art techniques, ensuring you are well-prepared to enter the industry with confidence. Some of the key learnings include:

• The basics of a good manicure and pedicure. 
• Advanced nail treatments, including gel, acrylics, powder and nail art. 
• Nail health training and advice. 
• Mastering different nail shapes and filing techniques, including an electric file.
• Salon time management. 
• Business acumen. 
• Social media marketing. 

Government funded nail technician courses

For students in Queensland, the Certificate III Guarantee funding applies to our Certificate III in Nail Technology course. If you’re eligible, this funding could cover a large chunk of your course fees.  

Here’s an overview of the breakdown: 

• Full fee course: $4,900. 
• With the Cert III Guarantee and concession: $194. 
• With the Cert III Guarantee but no concession: $1,094. 

A compulsory nail kit is is also required, costing $1,100. 

If you’re in other states and territories, get in touch with our team to find out what funding options may apply to your situation. Our course is delivered 100% online and we welcome enrolments Australia-wide. 

Combine your nail artist qualification with a beauty degree

After completing a Certificate III in Nail Technology, many of our graduates choose to further their education by enrolling in the Diploma of Salon Management. This advanced course helps improve job-ready skills and career prospects, preparing you for leadership roles and your share of the $1.6 billion beauty industry. Contact our team if you have any questions about bundling courses and fast-tracking your career. 

Why choose Demi?

If you want to be the best, you’ve got to learn from the best! We’re proud to be Queensland’s Small Training Provider of the Year, a testament to our high-quality education and training, with dedicated support. We know your study-life balance also needs to fit your work-life balance, so our courses are designed to be flexible around your needs. Start with us and watch your nail technician career thrive. 

Nail artist salary guide

The average salary of a nail technician in Australia is $65,000 per year, with Indeed reporting nail technician salaries of up to $145,000 per year in Melbourne and $119,000 per year in Brisbane. A nail artist salary will always be dependent on skill, experience, qualifications, work hours and location. 

Statistics show revenue for beauty and personal care is still on the rise with the Australian market expected to reach US$7.42bn in 2024. This is great news for qualified nail technicians and beauty therapists who are set to capitalise on this increasing demand.  

The top 6 nail technician skills you need to succeed

Alongside creativity, there are a few core business skills that every nail artist needs to know before starting: 

• Great communication
  

  Strong communication skills are essential in nail artistry. From chatting with clients to understanding their needs, effective communication helps you listen, respond appropriately, assist with treatments, answer questions and tackle any problems that may arise.

• Technical know-how
  

  Nail technicians must be proficient in various nail care and application techniques, including manicures, pedicures, acrylic nails and gel nail extensions.

• Artistic flair
  From high fashion nails to the creative and kooky, an eye for design will help to wow your clients and make an impression among your peers. 
  
• Dexterity
  As a nail technician, your hands and eyes are your most important tools. Practice and patience are required to help you refine your motor nail technician skills and keep your clients safe from harm.
• Time management
  Good time management is a non-negotiable in this line of work. You’ll need to know how to prioritise tasks and sometimes work with multiple clients to adhere to appointment schedules and keep things flowing.
  
• Business skills
  Having good customer service skills and an understanding of business processes will help you handle billing and admin, and give you a competitive advantage in marketing.
  

How to become a nail technician in less than a year

We often get asked about the timeline of how to become a nail technician, and with Demi International’s Certificate III in Nail Technology, you can be qualified in as little as six months.  

Our courses are designed to get you into the workforce fast, so you can get practical on-the-job experience. If you’re keen to keep studying, bundle your course with a Diploma of Beauty Therapy to increase your job opportunities.  

Start your nail technology journey today

Becoming a nail technician is a fulfilling and creative career choice with plenty of opportunities for career growth.

If you’re ready to take the next step, chat with one of our friendly Course Advisors to explore courses, start dates, payment options and enrolment eligibility. Your journey to a rewarding career in the beauty industry starts here!