Update on ARHG Re-registration and Grandfathering Eligibility

ARHG has provided updated guidance on provider recognition and re‑registration eligibility, including provisions under the grandfathering clause for providers who completed their qualifications prior to the introduction of Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) in March 2002.

Grandfathering Eligibility for Provider Recognition

Providers who completed or upgraded their qualification in Australia prior to March 2002, before the introduction of Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), may be eligible for provider recognition under ARHG’s grandfathering clause.

To be considered, providers must be able to demonstrate that they:

1. Received or upgraded their qualification in Australia
2. Have been continuously in practice since graduating (excluding maternity or paternity leave of no more than 12 months at a time)
3. Have undertaken ongoing Continuing Professional Education (CPE) in line with their Association’s membership requirements, including during any leave of absence
4. Have maintained continuous membership with their professional Association since graduating

Providers holding pre‑RTO qualifications must also demonstrate continuous Association membership for an ARHG‑accredited therapy, including compliance with ARHG requirements for current CPE, First Aid, and Insurance.

If these requirements are not met, providers will be required to upgrade their qualification in order to be recognised for an ARHG‑recognised therapy.

Re‑registration Considerations for Providers

Re‑registration may be considered only for providers who were registered with ARHG prior to 1 April 2019, when Naturopathy was removed from health fund eligibility following the Natural Therapy Review.

This consideration applies to providers who may have experienced a gap in Association membership, provided they can demonstrate that they:

1. Were active on the ARHG Ancillary Provider List for Naturopathy and Western Herbal Medicine as at 31 March 2019
2. Have worked continuously as a Naturopath or in Western Herbal Medicine between 1 April 2019 and 1 July 2025
3. Have completed 20 hours of CPE in the 12 months immediately prior to being relisted with ARHG

Providers who meet the above criteria may be eligible for re‑registration consideration.

Required Documentation – Action Required

If you have not already done so, please ensure that your current Professional Indemnity Insurance and First Aid certificates are submitted, and that your 2024/2025 CPE activities are uploaded to the ATMS Member Portal. Maintaining up‑to‑date documentation is essential to support your eligibility for ARHG recognition and re‑registration.

If you have any questions or require assistance, please contact the ATMS team