In an effort to contain the evolving COVID-19 crisis, the Australian Government has announced a new set of nation-wide crackdowns.
Some of which will have immediate ramifications for the Australian hairdressing industry. Read on to find out what this means for salons across the nation.
Effective midnight tonight (Wednesday 25th March), new restrictions will include a compulsory 30 minute time limit on ALL hairdressing and barbering services; irrespective of service or operation model.
In addition, Prime Minister Scott Morrison re-issued a notice that all hairdressing professionals must adhere to previously set social distancing measures, including the profession-wide observed four-square-metre rule.
While hairdressing salons and barbershops have been given the option to remain open, these new rules have caused many to announce a temporary close of operations, due to the restrictive nature of such measures and fears around the health of staff members.
Commenting on the directive, CEO of the Australian Hairdressing Council Sandy Chong shared, “Around 40,000 hairdressers and barbers continue to be at risk of as they are directly exposed to large members of the public.”
She continues, “The 30 minute appointment rule cuts out most services that salons offer their clients, particularly colour. Whilst many barbers can do a male haircut within that time frame, it really isn’t feasible for a majority of hairdressing salons.”
As for salon owners seeking to close shop temporarily? “The Fair Work Act, as it stands, makes it costly for businesses if they choose to stand down without the Government’s directive.”
With another National Cabinet meeting scheduled for this evening, Sandy maintains that it is crucial the stand down of hairdressing and barbering remains on the agenda for discussion.
“We must be on the agenda at tonight’s meeting so that this decision can be reversed. The Government must close hairdressing and barbering down for the safety of our workers and the community.”
Our hearts and thoughts are with all who are experiencing hardship during these unprecedented times. We will endeavour to keep you up to date as the situation evolves.
For more information on the AHC’s efforts, follow: facebook.com/AustHairdressingCouncil