Complementary Medicine Association

CMA Membership

Complementary Medicine Association membership entails professional representation to governments and government departments, state and federal bodies, media, private health funds, insurance companies, relevant industry groups, and the public.

The association represents professional: 

• Naturopaths
• Nutritionists
• Homoeopaths
• Western Herbal
• Chinese Herbal 
• Ayurvedic Practitioners 

As industry standards are subject to change, the Complementary Medicine Association accepts students from all Australian RTOs and Universities offering training packages leading to full qualifications recognised by the Australian Government. 

The CMA does not endorse a specific course, educational institution, or guarantee that a specific degree will result in membership as a full member.

As a Full Member, any fit and suitable individual or graduate student who meets the minimum industry-standard qualifications will be accepted. 

A private health fund rebate will be available after meeting eligibility requirements and complying with association rules, by-laws, and other applicable legislation.

The Community Services and Health Industry Skills Council announced in July 2014 that the Advanced Diplomas in Naturopathy, Homeopathy, Nutritional Medicine and Western Herbal Medicine would no longer be offered in the Health Training Package.   

Because of this decision, students in Australia can now only study for a Bachelor’s Degree to qualify as a Natural Medicine practitioner upon graduation.

Membership Categories

Full Membership

If you have graduated at the appropriate level, regardless of whether or not you are practising.

Provisional Membership

For those with (older) qualifications that do not meet the minimum education entry criteria, but who are currently enrolled in a course.

Student Membership

Free while undertaking studies

Associate Membership

For those who do not hold a natural therapies qualification but have a direct interest in the industry and wish to support the views of the CMA

Major Benefits of CMA Membership

• Be represented by a reputable association known for its professionalism
• Be led by Members of the Board who are practitioners themselves
• Supported by an administration team with exceptional knowledge and friendliness
• Quality of membership
• Annual accreditation with all major Australian health funds
• Each member has a vote in a democratic constitution
• The opportunity to offer input or suggest ideas that will benefit all Association members
• Participation in State Auxiliary bodies or on the Federal Executive
• Setting and maintaining educational, ethical, and professional standards
• A member's freedom to select his or her own insurance provider without being constrained by limitations
• Competitive membership fees
• Exceptional working relationship with health funds across the country
• GST exemption recognised by the Australian Taxation Office on patient consultations (where applicable)
• Multiple opportunities for accumulating 20 CPE points each year
• An organised, responsible approach to handling complaints by patients

For a complete list of benefits and qualifications or to apply for a membership, please visit the CMA website.