PIAA Survey Shows 79% of Groomers Struggle to Hire Skilled Staff
PIAA’s 2025 pet grooming survey found 79% of operators say finding skilled groomers is extremely difficult, with 92% wanting better industry statistics as the association pushes mandatory animal care training for new entrants. For PIAA grooming skills shortage, Updated 6 July 2026.
Results published on piaa.org.au underpin July 2026 policy talks after news.com.au investigations put salon standards on the national agenda. PIAA says it is working with state and federal departments on code-of-practice updates requiring foundation welfare training across grooming, daycare, boarding, and walking.
Owners feel the shortage as longer wait times and rushed appointments at understaffed salons.
What the survey numbers mean on the ground
When four in five businesses cannot hire skilled staff, salons stretch appointment blocks, rely on juniors without mentors, or turn away new clients. That increases burnout among senior groomers who stay, which welfare advocates warn raises handling risk when tables run behind schedule.
PIAA frames mandatory entry training as both an animal welfare uplift and a workforce quality filter. Seventy-six percent of surveyed operators supported mandatory animal care qualifications.
How this links to regulation headlines
Also,hours, and availability locally before you commit.
Also,hours, and availability locally before you commit.
WA MP Amanda Dorn and Change.org petition organisers want licensing and accreditation now. PIAA’s approach is phased qualifications through industry codes rather than instant criminal penalties for unregistered operators.
Either path affects booking markets. Salons that invest in training and retention can market shorter waits and documented handling policies. Our June regulation summary tracks political demands.
What owners can do in July
This prices, hours, and availability locally before you commit.
Also,ces, hours, and availability locally before you commit.
That prices, hours, and availability locally before you commit.
Also,ces, hours, and availability locally before you commit.
Book recurring appointments before winter matting sets in. Ask whether your groomer is training apprentices under supervision. Favour salons that publish fear-free or low-stress handling policies.
Search the groomer directory and read how to choose a dog groomer before switching salons in a hurry.
Workforce outlook for late 2026
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When prices, hours, and availability locally before you commit.
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Once tip: confirm prices, hours, and availability locally before you commit.
Once: confirm prices, hours, and availability locally before you commit.
Once: confirm prices, hours, and availability locally before you commit.
PIAA membership year reset 1 July renews recruitment campaigns. Expect TAFE and private trainers to market welfare modules if governments adopt PIAA’s proposed code updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many groomers struggle to hire skilled staff?
79% in PIAA’s 2025 grooming survey described finding skilled groomers as extremely difficult.
Does PIAA support mandatory qualifications?
Its survey reported 76% operator support for mandatory animal care qualifications for new entrants.
Where can I read the full PIAA grooming survey?
On piaa.org.au under the PIAA Pet Grooming Survey 2025 page.
More industry news at dog-grooming.online/news.
Source: ABC News.
In Australia, availability and pricing shift by state and season. Use our directory and guides to shortlist businesses near you, then call or message to confirm hours, services, and any surcharges before you visit.
Once compare options, check opening hours, payment methods, and whether walk-ins are accepted. A quick phone call commonly saves a wasted trip and helps you pick the best fit for your budget and timeline.
Once compare options, check opening hours, payment methods, and whether walk-ins are accepted. A quick phone call commonly saves a wasted trip and helps you pick the best fit for your budget and timeline.
With you compare options, check opening hours, payment methods, and whether walk-ins are accepted. A quick phone call commonly saves a wasted trip and helps you pick the best fit for your budget and timeline.
With answer: PIAA grooming skills shortage depends on your suburb, the provider you choose, and what you need on the day. Compare a few local options, confirm pricing up front, and read recent reviews before you book.
By Dog Grooming Online Team
See also this official Australian reference for background.
How do you compare local options?
Shortlist two or three providers, then confirm hours, prices, and reviews from the last 90 days.
Need a local listing?
Browse verified businesses in our directory for hours and contact details, or read more guides on the blog when you want coat-care and booking context first.
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