How The Stage 2 Coronavirus Restrictions Will Affect Australian Beauty Businesses

You can still go to the hairdresser – but there’s a catch. 

The unfolding coronavirus (COVID-19) situation means that we are all dealing with a lot of uncertainty and change to our day-to-day routine. At Gritty Pretty, we want to help you navigate through this time. We’ll be sharing self care advice and tips on how to look after your body and mental health. If there are any topics you want Gritty Pretty to cover, please send us a DM on Instagram.

UPDATE: 

After being inundated with feedback that the government’s 30 minute time limit per haircut wasn’t realistic, Prime Minister Scott Morrison released a statement this morning, saying that the rule would be lifted. However, the four square metre per person rule will remain.

ORIGINALLY REPORTED:

Last night, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced new stage two restrictions to help slow the spread of COVID-19 within the Australian community. Described as ‘draconian’, these new lockdown measures will see the closure of non-essential businesses and gatherings. 

All Australian beauty businesses will be affected under these new rules. As of today, Wednesday March 25, beauty therapy, tanning, waxing and nail salons across the country will be forced to close. 

Hairdressing salons and barbershops have the option of remaining open – however, they are severely restricted in their offering. Appointments are limited to 30 minutes or less with one person allowed per four square metres. 

Jaye Edwards, founder, director and colourist of EdwardsAndCo, has made the difficult decision to close all EdwardsAndCo salons during this period: “30 minutes simply isn’t enough time for our stylists to do their job. We would rather close our doors for now than let the quality of our work suffer. Today will be the last day of trade.”

“In light of this, we have just launched our IGTV series, The lockdown with EdwardsAndCo, with episode one covering our new at home hair colour kits. The purpose of the series is to give people tips and tricks for maintaining their hair at home and providing some light entertainment. 

“Now is the time for businesses in our industry to adapt, be flexible and think outside the box to ensure staff and clients feel supported and safe.”

How can you support your favourite beauty businesses during what is an incredibly tough period? Follow them on social media, take them up on their at-home offerings or purchase a voucher now to redeem at a later date. 

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