How Much to Start a Laser Engraving Business in Australia?

Laser engraving is one of the most flexible and creative small business opportunities out there. From custom tumblers and wooden signs to industrial parts and personalised gifts, engraved products are in demand across multiple industries. Whether you’re starting a full-time workshop or building a weekend side hustle, understanding your startup costs is the key to launching successfully.

This guide outlines all the typical investments needed to start a laser engraving business in Australia. We’ll cover machines, accessories, materials, workspace setup, marketing, and admin costs. Whether you're working with wood, acrylic, leather, or metal, proper planning gives you a realistic roadmap—from entry-level setups to advanced operations—so you can launch with confidence.

1. Laser Engraving Machines

Your laser engraving machine is the single most important investment and will heavily influence your total startup cost. There are three main types: CO₂, diode, and fibre lasers. Each is suited for different materials and types of projects.

If you're just getting started, the OMTech K40+ 40W is an excellent entry-level CO₂ laser. Compact and budget-friendly, it’s ideal for engraving on wood, acrylic, leather, paper, and other non-metallic materials. It’s a great pick for hobbyists and home-based businesses.

For those wanting higher productivity and a larger work area, the OMTech 60W CO₂ laser is a powerful choice. With a larger bed size, autofocus, and higher wattage, it's ideal for small business owners who plan to take on a wide range of client projects, including cutting and engraving on thicker materials.

If you're focused on metal engraving (e.g., stainless steel, aluminium, brass, titanium), you'll need a fibre laser. Fibre lasers engrave directly on metal surfaces without sprays or coatings and are ideal for high-precision, permanent markings.

Estimated machine cost range: $800 – $15,000+

2. Accessories and Add-Ons

To run your machine safely and efficiently, a few essential accessories are needed. Some are optional, but most are highly recommended for quality output and user safety.

• Exhaust system: Clears smoke and fumes—especially important when working indoors with materials like wood or acrylic.
  Estimated cost: $100 – $1,000
  
  

• Water chiller or pump: Required to keep CO₂ laser tubes cool. Pumps are basic, while chillers are more efficient.
  Estimated cost: $200 – $800
  
  

• Air assist: Blows debris away from the laser path and reduces flare-ups.
  Estimated cost: $100 – $150
  
  

• Rotary attachment: Allows engraving on round items like bottles, mugs, and tumblers.
  Estimated cost: $300 – $700

Total estimated accessories cost: $700 – $1,650

3. Materials and Consumables

To begin producing and fulfilling orders, you’ll need a basic inventory of engravable materials:

• Wood and plywood sheets
  
  

• Acrylic panels
  
  

• Natural or synthetic leather
  
  

• Blanks like tumblers, keyrings, chopping boards
  
  

• Metal tags or anodised aluminium plates (for fibre lasers)

Consumables also include spare mirrors, lenses (for CO₂ lasers), and protective masking films. These components may need replacing every 6 to 12 months depending on your workload.

Estimated materials cost: $500 – $2,000

4. Software and Computer

Your laser will need compatible design and control software. Entry-level CO₂ lasers usually come with RDWorks, but most business owners upgrade to LightBurn for its intuitive interface and advanced features.

You’ll also need a dedicated computer—desktop or laptop—that meets the software's requirements.

Estimated software and computer cost: $500 – $2,000

5. Workspace Setup

Creating a dedicated workspace improves both efficiency and safety. A basic setup includes:

• A sturdy table or workbench for your machine
  
  

• Shelving for materials and finished goods
  
  

• Proper ventilation for fumes and smoke
  
  

• PPE like gloves, goggles, and a fire extinguisher

If you’re working in a garage or spare room, costs may be minimal. If you rent or renovate a studio, budget accordingly.

Estimated workspace setup cost: $500 – $1,500

6. Marketing and Branding

Even the best machine won't bring in sales without visibility. Consider the following marketing essentials:

• Website or online shop (via Shopify, Etsy, etc.)
  
  

• Social media ads and content creation
  
  

• Business cards, branded packaging, logo design
  
  

• Craft fair booth setup or market stall display

Estimated marketing cost: $500 – $2,000

7. Licensing and Insurance

You’ll also need to set aside funds for the administrative side of the business, including:

• Business registration (ABN or company)
  
  

• Local licences or permits if required
  
  

• Insurance for equipment and public liability

Estimated licensing and insurance cost: $500 – $1,500

Total Estimated Startup Costs

In total, launching a laser engraving business in Australia costs between $4,000 and $25,650+, depending on the size and scope of your operation.

Home-based businesses and side hustles can often launch with $4,650 to $8,000, while full-time workshops may need more significant investment to scale.

Final Thoughts

A laser engraving business is an exciting and accessible path to self-employment—but like any business, success starts with proper planning. From selecting the right machine to setting up your workspace and stocking materials, each decision impacts your growth potential.

OMTech offers a complete line of reliable, affordable CO₂ and fibre laser machines to help you launch and grow—whether you're starting small or thinking big.

Ready to Launch?

Explore OMTech’s full range of laser engravers and accessories today at omtechlaser.au and take the first step toward starting your own laser engraving business.