CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 24,499	$ 1,568	$ 31,260	$ (8,162)
Change in cumulative translation adjustment	2,542	92	1,701	(6,286)
Change in unrealized loss on marketable securities	(31)	(187)	(10)	(339)
Change in fair value on cash flow hedges	(91)	0	(23)	0
Actuarial gain (loss)	(9)	14	12	327
Pension settlement	0	0	0	87
Comprehensive loss	26,910	1,487	32,940	(14,373)
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(23)	(24)	(147)	(68)
Comprehensive loss attributable to Brooks Automation, Inc.	$ 26,887	$ 1,463	$ 32,793	$ (14,441)