Qualification Overview: SHB30321 Certificate III in Nail Technology
The Certificate III in Nail Technology (SHB30321) is the definitive national standard for nail artists and technicians operating across Australia. Superseding SHB30315, this qualification covers the technical execution of acrylic, gel, dip powder, and nail art enhancements alongside infection control, salon safety, and client consultation.
Whether you manage a commercial beauty salon, operate an ABN-registered home salon, or have extensive overseas salon experience, Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows you to turn your hands-on work into a formal testamur without attending classrooms.
Packaging Rules: 15 Units of Competency
To achieve the SHB30321 qualification, candidates must demonstrate competence in 15 units (comprising 11 core units plus 4 elective units). These units establish full capability across enhancements, e-filing, and public health standards.
| Unit Code | Unit Title | Type |
|---|---|---|
| SHBBINF002 | Maintain infection control standards | CORE |
| SHBBNLS007 | Apply gel nail enhancement | CORE |
| SHBBNLS008 | Apply acrylic nail enhancement | CORE |
| SHBBNLS009 | Apply electric file techniques for nail services | CORE |
| SHBBNLS010 | Apply dip powder nail enhancements | CORE |
| SHBBNLS011 | Use specialised nail art techniques | CORE |
| SHBBRES003 | Research and apply beauty industry information | CORE |
| SHBXCCS007 | Conduct salon financial transactions | CORE |
| SHBXCCS008 | Provide salon services to clients | CORE |
| SHBXIND003 | Comply with organisational requirements within personal services | CORE |
| SHBXWHS003 | Apply safe hygiene, health and work practices | CORE |
| SHBBCCS005 | Advise on beauty products and services | ELECTIVE |
| SHBBNLS005 | Provide manicure and pedicure services | ELECTIVE |
| SHBBNLS006 | Apply decorative nail art | ELECTIVE |
| BSBSUS211 | Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices | ELECTIVE |
Evidence Portfolio for Nail Technicians
Assessing RTOs require verifiable proof that your technical application matches current Australian salon and infection control benchmarks.
Acceptable Evidence Includes:
- Photo & Video Portfolio: High-resolution before, during, and after photos demonstrating nail prep, cuticle work, apex formation, acrylic/gel application, e-file cuticle work, and finished sets.
- Client Consultation Records: Redacted consultation forms, contraindication assessments, and nail service aftercare sheets.
- Infection Control & Autoclave Logs: Documentation or photos of your sanitisation, sterilisation, disinfectant solutions (Barbicide), and single-use tool protocols.
- Business & Employment Proof: ABN registration details, public and treatment liability insurance policies, merchant receipts, or supervisor reference letters from salon managers.