Understand your laser CPD requirements for new AHPRA guidelines

Advance guidelines for licensed health professionals practicing non-surgical cosmetic procedures, such as those utilising lasers and energy-based equipment, have been announced by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). These rules, which will go into effect on September 2, 2025, are intended to improve public safety and standardise procedures throughout the sector.

AHPRA's larger initiatives to increase safety and accountability in the cosmetic treatments sector include these guidelines. To guarantee adherence and maintain the highest standards of patient care, practitioners are urged to get fully acquainted with the recommendations. 

With regard to accountability, remember that the respective boards ask you to annually declare that you have the requisite skills and knowledge for your scope of practice, and not having it means you are in breach of the National Law. Also, a percentage of the register is audited annually, so you could be next! Luckily we've made CPD for cosmetic procedures, especially laser safety, easy!

To orientate yourself to the new AHPRA guidelines, Section 9 refers to the continuing professional development (CPD) required when performing cosmetic procedures. Laser cosmetic procedures include laser hair removal, laser tattoo removal, skin rejuvenation, skin resurfacing, capillary reduction, pigment removal, fat removal and the removal of benign lesions.

To help get clarity around how lasers fit into the guidelines, I decided to substitute the word "LASER" in Section 9 instead of the broader term "cosmetic procedure." That way, it is VERY clear and practical to understand what your requirements are, and we're here to help.

9.1 LASER procedures must only be provided by registered health practitioners who have appropriate education, knowledge, training, competence, authorisations (where required) and experience to perform the specific LASER procedure safely. This includes not only competence and expertise in performing the LASER procedure and handling all routine aspects of care, but also the ability to manage any likely complications.

9.2  All registered health practitioners are responsible for ensuring they are sufficiently educated, trained and competent to undertake any LASER procedure they may perform safely. Registered health practitioners must ensure that any education and training they undertake is sufficient to enable competent and safe performance of the LASER procedure and the subsequent care of the person after the procedure.

9.3  National Boards consider that adequate education and training to undertake a LASER procedure includes,

at a minimum:

a) appropriate training in relevant anatomy and physiology

b) training on the assessment for suitability for the procedure, and

c) both theoretical and hands-on training in the specific procedure being offered, including assessment and demonstration of competence to safely perform the procedure, and care of the person (including side effects and short and long-term complications and their management). 

9.4 Registered health practitioners who are changing their scope of practice to include LASER procedures are expected to undertake any training necessary to ensure they have the appropriate knowledge and competence before providing LASER procedures.

9.5  All registered health practitioners must participate regularly in continuing professional development (CPD) that is relevant to their scope of practice. All registered health practitioners whose scope of practice includes LASER procedures must undertake CPD that includes activities related to LASER procedures.

If you'd like more information on what course is best for you, reach out to us here.