Please read before relying on this page. This is a general overview only. Laser and IPL regulation in Australia is set separately by each state and territory, changes frequently, and is applied differently by different regulators and insurers. Alma Lasers Australia does not provide legal or regulatory advice and accepts no responsibility or liability for any decision, purchase, licence application or clinical practice made on the basis of this page.
Before you buy, install or operate any laser or IPL device, confirm the current requirements directly with the regulator in your state or territory, and with a consultant who specialises in laser safety and compliance for your jurisdiction. Where this page and the regulator disagree, the regulator is right.
Page last reviewed: 11 September 2026. If you spot an error or a rule that has changed, please tell us.
Regulations governing the possession and use of lasers and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) devices for cosmetic procedures in Australia vary by state and territory.
Here’s a detailed overview:
Queensland (QLD):
- Possession: A possession licence is mandatory to own Class 4 laser apparatus. Applicants must develop a radiation safety and protection plan, ensure equipment complies with Australian standards, and have their apparatus and rooms certified for compliance.
More details: Queensland Health - Use: Operators of Class 4 lasers must hold a use licence. The process involves obtaining a Laser Safety Certificate, an Infection Prevention Control Certificate, applying for a trainee licence, completing supervised practical hours (ranging from 25 to 100 hours depending on the procedure), and then applying for a full use licence.
More details: Queensland Health - IPL Devices: Currently, there are no specific licensing requirements for the possession or use of IPL devices.
Western Australia (WA):
- Possession: A possession licence is required for Class 3B and Class 4 lasers. Applicants must ensure their equipment complies with relevant safety standards and have appropriate safety protocols in place.
More details: Radiological Council of WA - Use: Operators need a use licence for Class 3B and Class 4 lasers. Requirements include obtaining a Laser Safety Certificate, an Infection Prevention Control Certificate, and completing supervised practical hours. For tattoo removal, attending a specific course is mandatory.
More details: Radiological Council of WA - IPL Devices: No licensing requirements exist for the possession or use of IPL devices.
Tasmania (TAS):
- Possession and Use: All users of IPL and Class 3B and Class 4 laser devices must be licensed by the Department of Health. Applicants need to demonstrate adequate clinical supervision from a full licence holder to practice independently.
More details: Tasmanian Department of Health
New South Wales (NSW):
- Possession and Use: There are no specific licensing requirements for the possession or use of lasers and IPL devices for cosmetic purposes. However, obtaining a Laser Safety Certificate is recommended to comply with standards and secure insurance.
More details: NSW EPA
Victoria (VIC):
- Possession and Use: No specific licensing requirements exist for the possession or use of lasers and IPL devices for cosmetic purposes. The Department of Health provides guidelines emphasizing the importance of proper training and safety protocols.
More details: Health Victoria
South Australia (SA), Northern Territory (NT), and Australian Capital Territory (ACT):
- Possession and Use: Currently, there are no specific licensing requirements for the possession or use of lasers and IPL devices for cosmetic purposes. Obtaining a Laser Safety Certificate is advisable to ensure compliance with safety standards and for insurance purposes.
It’s essential to consult local health departments or regulatory bodies for the most current information, as regulations can change.
This overview is provided for general information only and may be out of date. Alma Lasers Australia accepts no liability for reliance on it. Always verify current requirements with your state or territory regulator and a specialist compliance consultant before acting.