How to Start Your Own Dreadlock Salon in Australia

Most locticians end up running their own business. Very few salons in Australia hire dreadlock specialists, so if you want to do this work, sooner or later you will be building something of your own.

That can feel overwhelming. It doesn't have to be. Here is how I would think about it, step by step.

1. Start with yourself

Before you look at spaces or paperwork, ask yourself: what kind of practice fits my nature? Do I get energy from people around me, or do I need calm? Do I want to be visible from the street, or have a private space where clients come because they have chosen me?

There is no right answer. But the wrong answer for you will wear you out.

2. Check the rules in your state and council

• Your qualification. In New South Wales and South Australia, there are laws about who may do hairdressing for a fee. Find out whether they apply to your work. Read Do You Need to Be a Qualified Hairdresser to Make Dreadlocks in Australia?
• Your premises. In Victoria, hairdressing premises must be registered with the council. In Western Australia, councils approve them. Elsewhere, ask your council.
• Home salons. Councils have planning rules for home businesses. Ask before you set up.

3. Set up the business

Most locticians start as a sole trader because it is simple. You will need an ABN, and if you trade under a business name, you register that with ASIC. Once your turnover reaches the GST threshold, you need to register for GST.

As a sole trader, nobody takes tax out of your income for you. Set money aside from every payment, and talk to an accountant early. They will also help you think about superannuation, which nobody pays into for you when you work for yourself.

4. Choose your space

• A home salon. No rent and full control. You need to protect the line between work and home, and check the rules first.
• Renting a chair. Very common in Australia. Lower risk, and a good way to start.
• Your own studio. Full control over light, sound and energy, but higher costs and more responsibility.
• A travelling practice. Visiting cities on a regular rhythm. In a country this size, it can work beautifully once you have a following.

5. Invest in your body before your décor

A good client chair, a working height that suits you and good light are worth more than beautiful walls. You will be working long days for many years. Read How to Work as a Loctician in Australia Without Wrecking Your Body.

6. Protect yourself

Get public liability and professional indemnity insurance. Use a simple consultation form and photo consent. Write down your booking and cancellation policies before you need them.

7. Set your prices honestly

Dreadlock services take time, often a full day. Charge for that time and for your skill. Undercharging leads to overbooking, and overbooking leads to burnout. I know, because it happened to me. Read more in How Much Does a Loctician Earn in Australia?

8. Find your first clients

People with dreadlocks often travel a long way to find someone they trust. Show your work clearly, show who you are, and let the right people find you. Photos and video from your hair models are your best start.

Getting support

My training includes much more than technique. In The Professional Loctician In-Person Training, I come to you in the capital of your state or territory for two one-to-one days, and the bonus courses cover building your website, social media and working smarter as a loctician. It costs $4,599 USD.

Read more about The Professional Loctician In-Person Training

Are you dreaming of your own dreadlock salon? Send me an email at [email protected]. I will answer honestly, even if I think the time is not right for you yet.

With love,
Ann-Marie