History of ARONAH
Naturopathy and Western herbal medicine are not currently regulated under Australia’s National Registration and Accreditation Scheme (NRAS), meaning there is no statutory national registration framework establishing minimum entry-to-practice standards for these professions.
ARONAH was established in response to this regulatory gap.
From foundation to today
More than fifteen years of work across professional standards, education, accreditation, research and regulation.
Lin Report recommends regulation
The Victorian Government-commissioned Lin Report recommended statutory regulation of naturopathy and Western herbal medicine.
Steering Committee established
Experienced practitioners formed a Steering Committee to progress an independent national registration framework.
ARONAH established
The inaugural Board convened in November 2010 and began developing the governance, registration and professional framework.
Regulatory foundations developed
More than fifteen foundational documents were developed across registration, education, competency, professional conduct and governance.
Broad stakeholder consultation
More than 80 stakeholders were invited to contribute, including associations, educators, government agencies, insurers and industry.
National practitioner register opens
ARONAH opened its practitioner register for appropriately qualified naturopaths and Western herbal medicine practitioners.
Advanced Diploma phase-out announced
The national skills council announced the removal of Advanced Diplomas in naturopathy and Western herbal medicine from the health training package, supporting a transition toward degree-level education for new graduates.
Education Accreditation Standards developed
ARONAH established national standards benchmarked against Australian primary healthcare education and international naturopathic education standards.
International engagement expands
ARONAH participated in the World Naturopathic Federation meeting in Canada, strengthening engagement with the profession internationally.
Advanced Diploma teach-out
Existing Advanced Diploma programs progressed through the national teach-out period. ARONAH extended recognition of graduates through to the completion of the teach-out on 31 December 2018.
Australian Naturopathic Council formed
ARONAH became a founding member of the newly formed Australian Naturopathic Council, establishing a formal mechanism for collaboration on national issues affecting the profession.
Accreditation Standards independently reviewed
A comprehensive arms-length review was led by an independent consultant, with stakeholder consultation conducted across multiple stages.
Higher education program accredited
Southern Cross University received accreditation against ARONAH’s national Education Accreditation Standards for naturopathy.
Naturopathic regulation research progresses
Major research examining the profession, its risks and benefits, and the case for regulatory reform in Australia was completed.
Private health insurance rebates return
Naturopathy and Western herbal medicine became eligible for re-inclusion under private health insurance from 1 July 2025, with participating funds progressively commencing claiming and rebate arrangements during 2026.
Statutory registration application submitted
ARONAH, together with members of the Australian Naturopathic Council and collaborating organisations, submitted an application for statutory registration to government.
Competency Standards consultation
Updated Competency Standards for naturopaths in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand were released for professional consultation.
The work continues
ARONAH continues its work across professional standards, accreditation, practitioner registration, research, public protection and regulatory reform.