Are you searching for a job that’s personally and financially rewarding? Does your vision of a dream job involve combining creativity and expert skills? The beauty industry could be the perfect fit for you.
Working in beauty comes with plenty of perks, including in-demand skill development, career versatility and the security of employment in a thriving field. The recent beauty industry statistics are in and 2025 is set to be a remarkable year for growth and innovation. The global beauty industry is projected to surpass an incredible $716 billion in revenue, driven by the increasing demand for skincare and premium beauty products, alongside the expansion of e-commerce.
And, as Australia’s beauty industry booms, so do your career opportunities. In this article, we’ll discover what opportunities are on the horizon, and the career paths you can follow to your beauty dreams.
Australian beauty industry statistics explained
There’s a lot of talk about how much the beauty industry is booming, but just how much is it expected to grow? According to the latest beauty industry statistics, the beauty and personal care industry is on track to reach US$7.42 billion in 2024, with an annual growth rate of 2.41% from 2024 to 2028. As a professional who delivers beauty services the time has never been better to build a career in this thriving industry.
For beauty therapists and professionals interested in eco-friendly and sustainable beauty, the news is even better. Australia is experiencing a surge in demand for natural and organic products, especially in beauty and skincare. If you’re drawn to eco-beauty, focusing on these treatments could take your career even further.
The beauty industry statistics around cosmetic treatments are also eye-opening, with annual spending on minimally or non-invasive procedures topping $1 billion. A new survey by Finder revealed that 41% of Australians, or 8.3 million people, spend a total of $19.7 billion a year on their appearance. This breaks down to a monthly spend of $1.6 billion—that’s around $430 per person every month. It’s not surprising that more and more professionals are upskilling in cosmetic nursing and injectables courses to keep up with the demand.
Given these stats, starting a career in the industry likely promises long-term job security and high demand for your skills. The beauty industry in Australia has huge potential, with Statista Analysts confirming it’s booming, especially in cosmetics and skincare. Young consumers are driving this growth, influenced by social media, global trends and eCommerce, which are shaping how beauty products are bought and used in daily routines.
What does a career in the beauty industry look like?
One of the most exciting things about pursuing a career in the beauty industry is how flexible the opportunities are to study what you want, when you want. Once you finish your studies, you’ll have the flexibility to choose your hours and working location. It really is a career choice that fits in with your lifestyle.
Here are some of the most common careers in the beauty industry and how much you can expect to earn one you’re trained and job-ready. Our tip? Combining your talents through a bundled course gives you double the opportunity (and income-earning potential!) when you graduate.
Beauty therapist
Becoming a beauty therapist is a dream shared by many of our students. This versatile career opens doors to a world of beauty, allowing you to explore and master various specialties. Imagine yourself performing rejuvenating skincare treatments, precise body hair removal, stunning nail art, soothing massages and flawless makeup applications. Not only is this career incredibly fulfilling, but it also offers a lucrative salary, with qualified beauty therapists earning an average of $65,000 to $75,000 a year – and more in some areas and roles.
Nail technician
Ever dreamt of becoming a nail expert? Imagine transforming nails into stunning works of art, offering luxurious manicures, pedicures and soothing massages. As a beauty professional, you’ll be in high demand, with clients eager for your creative touch. And the best part? In Australia, talented nail technicians can earn upwards of $80,000 a year with some Indeed members reporting salaries of $145,000 per year. Your income can soar based on your location, clientele and the unique services you offer.
Makeup artist
Good makeup artists have become superstars in their own right, and if you’re looking to become skilled in this art form, this could be the career for you. You’ll masterfully apply makeup to all kinds of clients, including those on the screen and stage. A makeup artist can earn upwards of $98,000 per year, potentially taking home even more if they run their own business.
Hairdresser
If creating #hairgoals for your clients is the career path you want to follow, you’ll be pleased to know you can earn between $35,000 and $55,000 as a junior hairdresser. As your cutting, styling, colour treatment and design skills progress, so can your income. Senior hair stylists can reach upward of $76,000, with uncapped earning potential.
Celebrity makeup artist
Becoming a makeup artist to the stars is a dream – it’s a thrilling and achievable goal. The beauty industry is brimming with opportunities, and if you aim high, the rewards can be spectacular. Not only do you have the chance to earn more than your peers, especially if you run your own business, but you also get to showcase your skills at high-profile events like photoshoots, awards ceremonies and on-screen productions.
Salon manager
In the beauty industry, some professionals find their passion in managing a salon, while others enjoy the best of both worlds by balancing management and hands-on work. As a salon manager, you’ll juggle finances, staff management, customer service and marketing. The rewards? A fulfilling career with potential earnings between $70,000 to $75,000, and even more if you own the salon!
Barbering
As a barber, you get to transform your clients’ looks with stylish haircuts, sharp fades and precise facial hair grooming. It’s not just about the skills; it’s about the artistry and the satisfaction of making someone feel their best. Plus, with the potential to earn between $65,000 and $75,000 a year in Australia, it’s a profession that rewards both your passion and your pocket.
The importance of beauty industry training
Whatever path you pursue, you want a qualification that gives you industry-admired skills. And with one from Demi International, Queensland Training Award’s Small Training Provider of the Year, you’ll be equipped to chase your dreams.
Our graduates are prepared to enter the beauty industry with relevant skills and training, plus the freedom to explore any career they like. We offer flexible learning so you can earn your qualifications with just 1-2 days of study per week. Part-time and full-time options are available to suit your lifestyle and personal commitments, just another benefit of studying with us.
Demi International’s Diploma of Beauty Therapy is one of our most popular courses for launching your career in the beauty industry. You’ll learn everything from skincare fundamentals to massage and makeup, ensuring you’re ready for the workforce as soon as you graduate. But don’t forget the growing beauty industry statistics for barbering, hairdressing and nail technology, set to soar in 2025.
Join Australia’s most rewarding industry
As one of Australia’s most versatile and in-demand industries, it’s easy to see why beauty is booming. Speak to one of our course advisors for help and discover what careers await when you gain a qualification with Demi International.
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