Dear Members,
The Natural Therapies Review Expert Advisory Panel (NTREAP) review has now been finalised, with a formal recommendation submitted to the Health Minister for determination. ATMS remains actively engaged in this process, advocating for the continued recognition of natural medicine within Australia’s healthcare framework.
ATMS Advocacy and Consultation
Since the NTREAP review commenced in 2019, ATMS has been at the forefront of advocacy efforts, ensuring the perspectives of natural medicine practitioners are represented. We have participated in 14 formal consultation meetings, engaging with:
- The Department of Health and Aged Care – Advocating for the recognition of natural therapies.
- Regulatory bodies – Aligning professional standards with national training frameworks.
- Consumer advocacy groups – Representing public demand for complementary therapies.
- Industry representatives and educational institutions – Assessing training and competency standards.
ATMS has consistently engaged in high-level discussions to ensure the value of natural medicine is properly considered in this review.
Modalities Reviewed by NTREAP
The NTREAP review assessed 16 natural therapies, which were removed from private health insurance rebates on 1 April 2019. These include:
- Alexander Technique
- Aromatherapy
- Bowen Therapy
- Buteyko
- Feldenkrais
- Homeopathy
- Iridology
- Kinesiology
- Naturopathy
- Pilates
- Reflexology
- Rolfing
- Shiatsu
- Tai Chi
- Western Herbal Medicine
- Yoga
Next Steps & Member Support
As we await the Health Minister’s final determination, ATMS will:
📌 Continue advocating for the recognition of natural therapies.
📌 Provide updates on any accreditation, training, or practice changes.
📌 Host ‘Meet the President’ Webinars to answer member questions and offer guidance.
Our Commitment to Natural Medicine
ATMS appreciates your patience and support during this extensive review process. We remain committed to ensuring natural medicine practitioners are valued, recognised, and protected within Australia’s evolving healthcare system.
We will provide updates as soon as the Health Minister’s determination is announced.
Yours sincerely,
Annie Gibbins
Chief Executive Officer
Australian Traditional Medicine Society
