What is it about?

This article provides an accessible overview of how Chinese medicine practitioners are regulated in Australia as of 2024. It outlines the number of registered practitioners, the roles of the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia (CMBA), and recent developments in regulatory practices. The piece aims to inform the public and stakeholders about the current state of Chinese medicine practice and its governance in Australia.

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Why is it important?

This article stands out as it is published with the authority of the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia, the national regulator for Chinese medicine practitioners in the country. It offers an up-to-date snapshot of the profession, including practitioner demographics and regulatory advancements. By providing current data and insights, the article serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, educators, and healthcare professionals interested in the integration and oversight of traditional medicine within Australia's healthcare system.

Perspectives

As authors and registered practitioners involved in the regulation of Chinese medicine in Australia, this article represents more than a summary of data — a reflection of professional growth, responsibility, and future direction. Regulation extends beyond compliance. A foundation for public confidence, professional credibility, integration within Australia’s broader health system. Over time, governance has shaped not only practitioner standards, but public perception, safety, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. This publication highlights key developments since national registration commenced in 2012. It captures achievements, identifies ongoing challenges, reflects shifting expectations. A focus on maintaining safety, fostering innovation, responding to community needs. A deeply personal commitment underlies this work. Dedication to safe, competent, culturally responsive care. This article carries both authority and intent. A resource for health professionals, policymakers, educators, and the public. A prompt for reflection, dialogue, continued progress.

Professor Chi Eung Danforn Lim
University of Technology Sydney

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: Regulation of Chinese medicine practitioners in Australia 2024: Ensuring public safety and professional standards, Journal of Traditional Chinese Medical Sciences, January 2025, Tsinghua University Press,
DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcms.2024.11.006.
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