Skin penetration and hairdressing

Businesses providing personal care services including skin penetration and hairdressing and barbering services, are required to meet specific health requirements relating to premises layout, cleanliness, infection and hygiene control. The Department of Health provides information for operators of personal appearance (skin penetration) premises.

Some businesses may need to obtain planning approval before operating. For more information, please view the Town's Planning Services here.

Skin penetration premises

Skin penetration procedures include beauty therapy treatments (e.g, waxing), tattoos (including cosmetic application), piercings and acupuncture. Skin penetration premises must comply with the Health (Skin Penetration Procedure) Regulations 1998 and the Code of Practice for Skin Penetration Procedures 1998 to ensure all practicable steps are taken to prevent the risk of infection.

The legislation does not apply to medical practitioners, dentists, a person under the supervision of a medical practitioner, podiatrists or nurses or any other person registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.

If you are planning on operating a skin penetration premises, approval from the Town is required by completing a Skin Penetration Procedure Establishment Application. 

How to apply 

1. Prepare your documentation

Ensure you have digital copies of all relevant documents, including:

  • Floor and wall coverings
  • Covering/finishing of equipment and furniture
  • Location of hand wash basins
  • Workspace and preparation areas
  • Location of a minimum of two sinks
  • Covering/finishing of equipment and surfaces
  • General and medical waste receptacles
  • Laundry facilities (if in-house)
  • Business registration issued by the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC)

2. Apply online

To operate a skin penetration premises, you must submit a Skin Penetration Procedure Establishment Application for approval here.

3. Payment

Once your application is received, the Enviromental Health Services Team will contact you regarding payment. The application will not be processed until payment has been made.

If you have any questions, please contact the Environmental Health Services Team on (08) 9347 6000 or via email mail@cambridge.wa.gov.au.

Hairdressing and barbering businesses 

Hairdressing and barbering businesses must comply with the Hairdressing Establishment Regulations 1972 and the guidelines for the hairdressing and barber industry to ensure all practicable steps are taken to prevent the risk of infections.

For more information, please visit the Department of Health website.

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