Media Release: 15 April 2025
Sydney, Australia – The Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS) proudly welcomes the Federal Government’s announcement that seven natural therapies will be reinstated for private health insurance rebates, following the findings of the Natural Therapies Review into their effectiveness.
The review, led by Chief Medical Officer Professor Michael Kidd AO and supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), concluded that there is now sufficient evidence to support the clinical benefits of these therapies.
The following natural therapies will be reinstated:
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Tai Chi
- Shiatsu
- Naturopathy
- Western Herbal Medicine
- Alexander Technique
This outcome marks a significant reversal of the 2019 decision to exclude these therapies from private health insurance policies. It reflects a renewed recognition of the important role natural therapies play in holistic and preventative health care.
Rebecca Lang, President of ATMS, said:
“This is a momentous day for our profession, our members, and the Australian public. The reinstatement of these therapies is the result of years of advocacy, collaboration, and belief in the value of natural medicine. ATMS is proud to have played a central role in championing evidence-based approaches that honour both tradition and innovation.”
ATMS acknowledges that this achievement would not have been possible without the unified efforts of allied professional associations across the country. Equally, we honour the dedicated work of our predecessors, whose advocacy and persistence laid the foundation for today’s success.
“This is a victory built on decades of collective effort,” Ms Lang added. “From lobbying governments to contributing to reviews and research, the natural therapies sector has remained committed to advancing public access to safe, credible, and effective healthcare options.”
The Albanese Government has accepted the recommendations of the review. While individual health insurers will determine whether to offer cover, the government has expressed its commitment to working with the sector to ensure timely re-inclusion and the re-establishment of provider credentialing frameworks.
Minister for Health and Aged Care, the Hon. Mark Butler MP, stated:
“The government will ensure timely re-inclusion of benefits for natural therapies, so this coverage is available as soon as possible.”
The full review findings, recommendations, and evidence evaluations will be published on the Department of Health and Aged Care website at www.health.gov.au, ensuring transparency for consumers and practitioners alike.
ATMS looks forward to supporting the next phase of implementation alongside insurers, regulatory partners, and the wider natural therapies community.
Media Contact:
Annie Gibbins
Chief Executive Officer
Australian Traditional Medicine Society
Email: ceo@atms.com.au
Website: www.atms.com.au
