Light up your career: How to become a laser technician in Australia
If a career in laser treatments is on your radar, now is a great time to explore it. Demand for non-surgical aesthetic procedures is rising, and so is the need for qualified professionals who can use advanced technology safely, ethically and effectively.
Working as a laser technician calls for more than a steady hand. It requires a strong foundation in skin science, laser physics and treatment protocols, along with a clear understanding of the regulatory environment across Australia.
At AACDS, our educators and student support team are here to help you step into this growing industry with confidence. With nationally recognised qualifications and real clinical experience, you’ll graduate ready to work in a variety of cosmetic and clinical settings.
What does a laser technician do?
Laser technicians have a responsibility to ensure every treatment is delivered with care, precision and safety. Day to day, this might include:
- Conducting client consultations and skin assessments
- Choosing the right settings for different skin types and conditions
- Operating IPL (intense pulsed light) and laser devices within the clinic's approved scope
- Following protocols for hygiene, consent and aftercare
- Staying up to date with changing technologies and safety standards
Whether you're working in a beauty salon, medispa or medical setting, a strong focus on client safety and communication is key.
Career opportunities in laser therapy
Laser technicians can work in a range of environments depending on their qualifications and local regulations. Here are some of the most common roles:
Laser hair removal technician
Laser hair removal technicians perform long-term hair reduction using medical-grade laser or IPL devices. This role involves assessing skin and hair types, selecting safe settings and following strict protocols. It’s common in cosmetic clinics and medispas, and often requires a laser hair removal course to meet state regulations.
Laser tattoo removal technician
Tattoo removal technicians use targeted laser wavelengths to break down tattoo ink particles. With training in skin response and laser interaction, they work in cosmetic or dermal clinics offering tattoo fading or removal. Advanced tattoo removal certification for laser technicians is recommended for this specialised role.
Cosmetic laser technician
Cosmetic laser technicians perform skin-focused treatments like IPL, designed to help improve the appearance of pigmentation or redness, depending on their scope of practice. They often work in medispas or advanced skin clinics, delivering non-ablative procedures that may support skin tone and texture.
Medical laser technician
Medical laser technicians support clinical teams with more invasive laser procedures, including fractional resurfacing or CO2 treatments. These roles are typically suited to Registered Nurses or qualified health professionals working under medical supervision.
Laser safety officer
Laser safety officers oversee the safe use of Class 3B and 4 lasers in clinics. Their responsibilities include ensuring compliance with safety standards, maintaining records and managing laser technician training. This role is mandatory in some states and requires an accredited certificate.
How to become a laser technician
To become a laser technician in Australia, you’ll need formal training in laser safety, a solid understanding of skin and device interactions, and - depending on your state - specific licensing for the use of certain lasers. Your training should include theoretical foundations, clinical protocols, and supervised hands-on experience.
Regardless of your location, starting with an accredited Laser Safety Officer (LSO) Certificate is a smart first step. This qualification equips you with the knowledge to work safely and helps meet insurance and industry expectations.-
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Licensing and regulatory requirements
Laser and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) regulations in Australia vary significantly across states and territories. While some jurisdictions require formal licensing for the use of Class 3B and Class 4 lasers - particularly for cosmetic and tattoo removal procedures - others have minimal or no specific licensing requirements. In many cases, regulation falls under broader radiation safety laws rather than cosmetic-specific frameworks.
For the most current information, we recommend checking with your state or territory’s health department or radiation safety authority.
No matter where you're based, aligning your practice with ARPANSA, TGA and AHPRA standards is an essential part of working ethically and professionally in this space.
Advanced laser technician training
Advanced certification for laser technicians ensures safe, effective treatment delivery in line with clinical protocols, legal regulations, and insurance requirements, while upholding industry best practices.
AACDS offers several advanced laser technician training options, depending on your background and career goals:
- Laser Safety Officer’s Certificate
- Professional Certificate in Laser Tattoo Removal
- Laser Bridging Course for AACDS Graduates (offered to WA students who may not have completed their class 3B and 4 laser in their practical training units)
- 52919WA Graduate Diploma of Cosmetic Nursing and Injectables
- 52923WA Advanced Diploma of Cosmetic Dermal Science
These programs combine theoretical knowledge with supervised clinical experience to give you a well-rounded, practical education.
Read more about why qualifications matter in cosmetic industry regulations and patient safety.
Laser technician salary
Full time laser technicians in Australia can expect to earn an average of $74,000 per year, depending on experience, location and clinic type. Professionals who build on their qualifications or specialise in areas like dermal science or cosmetic nursing may progress into senior technician roles, training positions or clinical leadership.
Career progression can be influenced by:
- Additional training or certifications
- State-based licensing
- Type of clinic (cosmetic vs medical)
- Years of hands-on experience
Why choose AACDS
AACDS is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) with over two decades of experience in cosmetic nursing and dermal therapy education.
- Courses are nationally recognised and designed in line with current industry standards
- Study options are flexible, with a mix of online theory and in-person clinical training
- Clinical training takes place in Aspire Training Clinics, located in four cities across Australia
- You’ll learn from experienced educators who bring both clinical and classroom expertise
Your future in laser therapy starts here
If you’re looking for a meaningful, hands-on role in the cosmetic or dermal field, a focus on laser therapy might be the perfect fit. With the right training and support, you can build a career that blends science, skill and client care.
To learn more about your options, chat with an AACDS Course Consultant about enrolment dates, eligibility and how to get started.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, nor does it promote or advertise any specific cosmetic procedure or prescription product. All procedures discussed should only be undertaken following a consultation with a qualified and registered health professional.
AACDS is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO 51373) delivering accredited education in cosmetic nursing and dermal science. Our content reflects current training practices, clinical guidelines, and regulatory compliance under AHPRA and the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Individual results and clinical decisions vary and should be guided by qualified practitioners.
