Naturopathy in Australia: Costs, Coverage & What to Expect
- Amy Simpson
- Mar 13
- 6 min read
Naturopathy is gaining popularity in Australia as a holistic approach to health and wellness. However, many people have questions about what Naturopaths actually do, how much it costs, and whether it’s worth the investment. This blog aims to answer the most common queries and provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of Naturopathy in Australia.
What Does a Naturopath Actually Do?
Naturopaths focus on holistic healing by treating the underlying causes of health issues rather than just managing symptoms. They use natural therapies such as herbal medicine, nutrition, and lifestyle counselling to support the body's natural healing processes. During a consultation, a Naturopath may assess your health history, diet, lifestyle, and stress levels to create a personalised treatment plan that considers systems thinking rather than just symptom reduction. Naturopaths take a systems-based approach, viewing the body as a whole. For example, improving the quality of life for someone with endometriosis isn’t just about supporting the reproductive system. Naturopathic care also considers the immune system, systemic inflammation, nervous system, sleep, metabolism, and more. Initially, naturopathic medicine aims to reduce symptoms and improve daily life, but the deeper goal is to address the root causes of dis-ease.
Is Naturopathy Covered by Medicare?
No, unfortunately Naturopathy is not covered by Medicare in Australia.
Is Naturopathy covered by private health insurance?
No. Naturopathy is not covered by private health insurance. This exclusion is historical but also stems from the 2017 review of the Australian Government Rebate on Private Health Insurance for Natural Therapies, which concluded that there was insufficient evidence of Naturopathy's effectiveness. Since this, the World Naturopathic Federation's (WNF) comprehensive Health Technology Assessment (HTA) reviewed over 2000 studies on naturopathic medicine and found that over 81% showed positive results.
How Much Does It Cost to See a Naturopath?
The cost of seeing a Naturopath can vary widely depending on the practitioner's experience and the length of the consultation. Initial consultations often cost between $100 and $250, with follow-up sessions ranging from $60 to $200. While this may seem expensive, many people find the personalised and preventive nature of naturopathic care offers long-term value, potentially reducing the need for future medical interventions. As the saying goes, invest in your health now or pay for it with disease later.
My initial appointments take approximately 1-1.5 hours (with considerable work and research by me outside of our appointment) and cost $160. I also offer this service for people with a concession for only $95.
Is Seeing a Naturopath Worth It?
For those seeking a holistic approach to health, seeing a Naturopath can be highly beneficial. Naturopathy offers tailored support for a wide range of conditions, including digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, stress, and chronic pain. According to research, Australian naturopaths conduct approximately 4.9 million consultations annually, with 6-10% of the public seeking naturopathic care. The World Naturopathic Federation’s Health Technology Assessment (HTA) found positive patient outcomes in over 81% of over 2000 studies, particularly for chronic conditions. These statistics highlight the significant role Naturopathy plays in supporting community health and the tangible benefits seen by many Australians. Additionally, Naturopaths provide valuable guidance during preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum periods, offering a natural and nurturing approach to healthcare that can be a primary health service or work alongside your other practitioners.
When Should You See a Naturopath?
You might consider seeing a Naturopath if you are struggling with chronic health issues that conventional treatments haven’t resolved or if you want to take a more proactive and preventive approach to your well-being. Many people visit naturopaths to optimise their health, manage stress, or support specific life stages, such as pregnancy or menopause.
How Long Does Naturopathy Take to Work?
The time it takes to see results with Naturopathy can vary depending on the individual and their specific health concerns. While some people notice improvements within a few weeks, others may require several months of treatment to achieve their health goals. Naturopathy emphasises long-term wellness, so consistency and patience are key. A good rule of thumb is for every year you've had a chronic condition, expect about three months of consistent work to see meaningful improvements. Although the path to true health is never linear.
What Happens at Your First Visit to a Naturopath?
Your first visit to a Naturopath typically involves a detailed health assessment, where the practitioner will take a thorough health history, discuss your lifestyle and diet, and possibly conduct physical assessments. The goal is to develop a personalised treatment plan that may include dietary changes, herbal medicines, supplements, and lifestyle recommendations.
What Are the Disadvantages of Naturopathy?
While Naturopathy offers many benefits, it is not without its disadvantages. One of the main challenges is the lack of Medicare coverage, which makes it less accessible for some individuals. Additionally, not all practitioners are regulated, which can lead to variability in the quality of care and concerns about the validity of real naturopathic practice. To ensure safety, it is important to choose a qualified and experienced naturopath who is a member of a reputable association.
Are Naturopaths registered?
No, Naturopaths are not registered Allied Health Practitioners. One of the major challenges facing the Naturopathic profession in Australia is the lack of statutory registration. While most Naturopaths support registration to safeguard the profession and the public, there is significant resistance both within and outside the profession. Registration would help standardise education, training, and ethical standards, and protect the title of 'Naturopath' from misuse by untrained practitioners. However, critics argue that registration could lead to a reductionist approach, aligning naturopathy too closely with mainstream medicine and potentially diluting its holistic philosophy and reducing patient outcomes.
My view is that the 2015 case of an untrained individual practising as a naturopath and endangering an infant life highlights the risks of the current self-regulated system and underscores the need for stronger regulatory measures to ensure public safety. It also makes me question the rigour of some of the self-governed peak bodies that Naturopaths register with.
The Evidence for Naturopathy
The evidence supporting Naturopathy is increasingly robust, with the World Naturopathic Federation’s Health Technology Assessment (HTA) showcasing positive outcomes in over 81% of the 300 clinical trials and 2000 peer-reviewed articles reviewed. The HTA aligns with World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines and demonstrates the effectiveness of naturopathic treatments, particularly for chronic conditions. Despite this, the Australian Government continues to exclude Naturopathy from private health insurance rebates and registration in the Allied Health Practitioner scheme.
Why You Should Choose a Degree-Qualified, Registered Naturopath
When seeking Naturopathic care, it is crucial to choose a practitioner who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Naturopathy and is registered with a recognised professional body, such as the Naturopaths and Herbalists Association of Australia (NHAA). Unlike social media influencers who may promote health advice without formal training, degree-qualified Naturopaths complete 500+ hours of supervised clinical training in addition to their Bachelor studies. This hands-on experience is critical as it bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge (gained in any Health Science degree) and real-life clinical application. This ensures Naturopaths can safely and effectively support their clients' health while identifying and manage risks - particularly around scope of practice. Additionally, registered Naturopaths meet stringent educational and ethical standards, are covered by professional indemnity insurance, and are equipped to apply clinical reasoning in practice. By choosing a qualified naturopath, you can have confidence in the safety, professionalism, and evidence-based nature of your care.
I completed a four-year, full-time Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy) at Torrens University in Melbourne, completing 44 subjects along with extensive supervised placement and clinical training. I also hold $20M insurance coverage.
Conclusion
Naturopathy offers a unique and holistic approach to health, focusing on treating the whole person rather than just symptoms. While the lack of Medicare coverage can be a barrier, the personalised care and preventive strategies offered by Naturopaths can provide lasting benefits. As the profession continues to evolve, discussions around registration and regulatory measures will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Naturopathy in Australia as well as patient outcomes.
If you are interested in exploring how naturopathy can support your health, book an appointment today and take the first step toward holistic wellness. I believe that Naturopathy should be inclusive, not exclusive so offer significant discounts for concession card holders.
Amy is a degree-qualified naturopath dedicated to helping busy, tired clients regain their energy and vitality.
She combines evidence-based naturopathic medicine, nutrition, and lifestyle interventions to empower clients on their journey to optimal health. Whether it’s reclaiming energy, balancing hormones, resolving digestive issues, or enhancing overall well-being and longevity, her personalised approach focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of health concerns. With a Bachelor of Health Science, ongoing studies in a Master of Advanced Practice, and full membership in the Naturopaths and Herbalists Association of Australia, Amy offers a unique blend of traditional wisdom and science to support individuals and families at every stage of life.
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