Regulations surrounding the possession and use of lasers and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) devices for cosmetic treatments in Australia differ by state and territory. Below is a state-by-state summary:


Queensland (QLD)
Possession:
A possession licence is required for owning Class 4 laser devices. Applicants must create a radiation safety and protection plan, ensure all equipment meets Australian standards, and have both the devices and treatment rooms certified for compliance.

Use:
Operators of Class 4 lasers must hold a use licence. The process includes obtaining:

• A Laser Safety Certificate
• An Infection Prevention Control Certificate
• A trainee use licence
• Supervised clinical experience (25–100 hours, depending on the procedure)
 After completing these steps, practitioners can apply for a full use licence.

IPL Devices:
No specific licensing requirements apply for owning or using IPL devices in Queensland.

*More info: Queensland Health


Western Australia (WA)
Possession:
A possession licence is mandatory for Class 3B and Class 4 lasers. Applicants must comply with safety standards and establish appropriate safety procedures.

Use:
Operators must obtain a use licence for Class 3B and Class 4 lasers. This includes:

• A Laser Safety Certificate
• An Infection Prevention Control Certificate
• Completion of supervised practical hours
 For tattoo removal, attending a specific accredited course is required.

IPL Devices:
No licensing requirements apply for IPL devices in WA.

*More info: Radiological Council of WA


Tasmania (TAS)
Possession & Use:
Licensing is required for all users of IPL and Class 3B and 4 lasers. Applicants must operate under the supervision of a fully licensed practitioner until they qualify for independent practice.

*More info: Tasmanian Department of Health

 

New South Wales (NSW)
Possession & Use:
There are currently no formal licensing requirements for the use or possession of lasers or IPL devices for cosmetic use. However, practitioners are strongly advised to obtain a Laser Safety Certificate to meet industry standards and support insurance coverage.

*More info: NSW EPA


Victoria (VIC)
Possession & Use:
Licensing is not required for laser or IPL devices used in cosmetic treatments. However, the Department of Health recommends practitioners follow established safety protocols and undergo proper training.

*More info: Health Victoria


South Australia (SA), Northern Territory (NT), and Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Possession & Use:
No specific licensing requirements exist for laser or IPL use in cosmetic procedures in these regions. Nevertheless, acquiring a Laser Safety Certificate is recommended to ensure safety compliance and to meet insurance obligations.

*Important Note:
As regulations are subject to change, it is essential to consult the relevant state or territory health department or regulatory authority for the most up-to-date information.