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This research work presents an optimisation of abrasive waterjet contour cutting process parameters with the objectives of maximising material removal rate, whilst minimising taper angle and surface roughness. This thesis contains an in-depth review of the systems behind abrasive waterjet machining and recent progress trends regarding its applications. The impacts of input parameters are investigated including traverse speed, waterjet pressure and abrasive mass flow rate against selected responses in abrasive waterjet contour cutting of austenitic stainless steel 304L. Experimental data is utilised to generate regression models in predicting responses, where the results are statistically evaluated to assess the percentage contribution of each parameter in the performance of contour cutting. Techniques, such as Taguchi and Response Surface Methodology, are employed to perform a single and multi-objective optimisation. Abrasive waterjets demonstrate similar responses in cutting curvature and straight line profiles during contour cutting. The study reveals that an increasing level of waterjet pressure and abrasive mass flow rate results in lower surface roughness, lower kerf taper angle and higher rate of material removal. Similarly, a lower rate of traverse speed achieves minimum surface roughness and kerf taper angle, whereas increasing its rate attains the maximum value of material removal rate.