Frequently Asked Questions

Are entries open? 

 

Yes, entries are now open! Head to Categories to view all categories and access the full rules, eligibility requirements, judging criteria, submission guidelines and submission checklist for each entry.​ The Awards Entry Platform will open on Monday, 13th May 2026, giving you access to complete and submit your entry.

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What's changed in the new AHFA format? 

 

The 2027 program marks one of the biggest evolutions in AHFA history, including:

• Two new categories – Hair Cutter of the Year and Texture Artist of the Year.

• The return of Transformation Stylist of the Year.

• A new Premium Category Group, recognising AHFA's most prestigious creative titles.

• New regional awards, with Eastern Australian Hairdresser of the Year and Western Central Australian Hairdresser of the Year replacing the previous state-based titles.

• More accessible entry pathways, including smartphone entry formats for selected categories.

• Reduced collection requirements across several professional collection categories.

• The return of Live Gallery Judging for professional photographic collection categories.

To learn more about all the updates, visit our What's New for 2027 page.

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What categories can I enter?

 

The 2027 program is structured across four award streams:

-Premium Categories

-Creative Categories

-Business Categories

-Product Categories

Each category has its own eligibility requirements, judging criteria and submission guidelines. Be sure to review the relevant Entry Kit before preparing your submission.

Many categories are open to New Zealand entrants, while the Global Hairdresser of the Year category welcomes eligible professionals from around the world.

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​Which categories can be entered using a Smartphone?

 

For 2027, AHFA has introduced more accessible entry pathways across selected Creative Categories.

The following categories can be entered entirely using smartphone photography or video:

• Texture Artist of the Year

• Commercial Colourist of the Year

• Hair Cutter of the Year

• Transformation Stylist of the Year

Please refer to the relevant category criteria for specific submission requirements.

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Which categories now require four collection images instead of six?

 

Several professional photographic collection categories have been streamlined from six images to four for 2027, helping reduce production costs while maintaining AHFA's creative and technical standards.

Please refer to the individual category briefs for the latest submission requirements.

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Who can enter AHFA?

 

AHFA welcomes entries from qualified professionals working across the hair industry.

Depending on the category, eligible entrants may include salon-employed hairdressers, salon owners, independent stylists, chair renters, suite operators and freelance professionals.

Please review the eligibility requirements for your chosen category before entering.​

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I've entered AHFA before. Do I need to read the new Rules & Criteria?

 

Yes. Several categories have been updated for 2027, including new entry pathways, revised submission requirements, category structures and judging processes. We strongly recommend reviewing the latest Entry Kit for your chosen category before preparing your submission.

I actually think this will save you a lot of emails because so many entrants will assume it's the same as last year.

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How are the photographic collection categories judged?

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For 2027, professional photographic collection categories return to Live Gallery Judging.

Entrants will be required to submit their collections printed and mounted, where they will be independently assessed in person by an Australian judging panel.

Video, smartphone, business and product categories continue to be judged independently by a combination of Australian and international judges.

 

​​When can I release my collection for online or print publication?

 

Professional photographic collections may only be published after the official AHFA Finalists Announcement.

Please wait until finalists have been announced before releasing your collection publicly.

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When and where is the AHFA Gala?

 

The 2027 Australian Hair Fashion Awards Gala will take place in May 2027.

The official date, venue and ticket information will be announced soon.

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What if I have more questions?

 

If you still cannot find what you are looking for, please feel free to reach out to us at ahfa@mdivision.com.au