What the Assuring Safe and Integrated Health Care Review Means for Our Professions The Assuring Safe and Integrated Health Care Review was soft launched on Sunday 4 May at the NHAA Naturopathic Symposium in Sydney, with a larger public launch planned later in the year. This major report is highly relevant to naturopathy and Western Herbal Medicine regulation in Australia, particularly as national conversations around safety, integration, and professional standards continue to evolve. CMA has been actively involved in both the development and funding of this work. Commissioned by the Australian Naturopathic Council (ANC)-of which CMA is a member-the 236-page research report examines the risks, benefits, and regulatory requirements for naturopathy and Western herbal medicine in Australia.

Why This Review Matters

As practitioners, we are working toward a future where naturopathy and Western herbal medicine are recognised, integrated, and supported within Australia’s broader healthcare system. Led by Dr Anne-Louise Carlton, this national review represents an important step in strengthening naturopathy and Western Herbal Medicine regulation in Australia. It provides an evidence-informed assessment of current practice, public safety considerations, and regulatory gaps.

Why Was the Review Conducted?

The review was undertaken to examine how naturopathy and Western herbal medicine are currently regulated, and whether existing arrangements adequately protect the public while supporting professional standards. In particular, the review focused on:

• Evaluating the risks and benefits associated with naturopathy and WHM
• Assessing the effectiveness of current, largely self-regulatory frameworks
• Exploring the case for statutory regulation to improve safety and accountability

This work responds to the growing use of complementary therapies across Australia, alongside increased concern about risks linked to unregulated practice.

What the Findings Tell Us

The findings confirm what many practitioners already know: naturopathy and Western herbal medicine play a meaningful role in primary healthcare. The review highlights the need for:

• Greater integration of our professions into mainstream healthcare
• Clear and consistent regulatory standards to support safe and effective practice
• Stronger collaboration between natural health practitioners and conventional medical professionals

Together, these findings support a more connected, safe, and evidence-informed healthcare system.

What This Means for Regulation in Australia

Importantly, the review strengthens the case for reform in naturopathy and Western Herbal Medicine regulation in Australia. It reinforces the need for nationally consistent standards that enhance public trust, professional credibility, and practitioner accountability, while recognising the contribution of our professions to healthcare delivery.

Where to From Here?

Following the release of the review, the ANC-together with stakeholders such as CMA-will focus on several next steps, including:

• Engaging with policymakers on the review’s recommendations
• Developing regulatory frameworks that may lead to statutory registration
• Promoting education and public awareness around professional standards and safe practice

This is a pivotal moment for our professions. 👉 We encourage all practitioner members to stay informed and engaged as we work toward stronger recognition and regulation of naturopathy and Western herbal medicine in Australia. Click Here to download full review