๐ŸŒฟ National Registration for Naturopaths and Herbalists

Supporting the future of Naturopathy and Western Herbal Medicine

A national opportunity to strengthen and advance our professions


๐Ÿ’ช Together, We Can Shape the Future of Naturopathy and WHM

The Assuring Safe and Integrated Health Care Review is a landmark report that validates what weโ€™ve long known: Naturopathy and Western Herbal Medicine (WHM) are essential parts of Australiaโ€™s healthcare system.


Commissioned by the Australian Naturopathic Council (ANC), of which, the CMA is a part, this comprehensive 236-page research report reviews the risks, benefits, and regulatory needs of our professions. It lays the foundation for greater professional recognition, stronger safety standards, and integration within mainstream healthcare.

๐Ÿ”ฅ Why Your Voice Matters Now

This Review is just the beginning โ€” its impact depends on you. Policymakers are listening, and we have a unique opportunity to influence how naturopathy and WHM are regulated and recognised across Australia.

By standing together and speaking with one voice, we can ensure that our professionโ€™s values โ€” holistic, evidence-based, and person-centred care โ€” are reflected in the future of national health policy.


๐ŸŽฏ How You Can Get Involved

  • ๐Ÿ“ข Stay informed โ€” read the Review and understand its recommendations
  • โœ‰๏ธ Engage with policymakers โ€” write to or meet your local MP to share why regulation matters
  • ๐Ÿค Connect with peers โ€” discuss ideas and strategies with fellow practitioners
  • ๐Ÿ’ก Watch for CMA updates โ€” weโ€™ll be sharing practical tips and templates to help you lobby effectively
Coming soon: Downloadable lobbying guides, sample letters, and talking points to help you advocate confidently for our professions.

๐ŸŒฑ What the Review Highlights

  • Our professions are integral to primary healthcare in Australia
  • We need clear national standards and accountability frameworks
  • There is strong evidence for greater integration with mainstream healthcare
  • Collaboration between natural and conventional practitioners benefits patients and communities alike

๐Ÿš€ The Road Ahead

The ANC and member organisations, including the CMA, are now working to:

  • Engage with government and regulators to progress recommendations
  • Develop frameworks for potential statutory registration
  • Promote awareness of professional standards and safe practice

This is a defining moment for naturopathy and WHM. Every practitioner voice counts. Together we can create a healthcare future that recognises, respects, and supports the work we do every day.


๐Ÿ”” Updates and Engagement

Weโ€™ll continue to share updates, lobbying tips, and member success stories as this initiative evolves. Check back regularly โ€” or keep an eye on our newsletters โ€” for new resources and calls to action.

๐Ÿ’ฌ โ€œWe can only build recognition and respect for naturopathy and herbal medicine if we act together. Every letter, every meeting, and every conversation helps move us forward.โ€

๐Ÿ“‚ Lobbying Resources

Effective advocacy begins with clear, consistent communication. Below youโ€™ll soon find practical resources you can download and use in your conversations with local representatives, colleagues, and community members.

  • ๐Ÿ“ Letter Templates โ€” pre-written examples for contacting your local MP or Senator
  • ๐ŸŽ™๏ธ Talking Points โ€” concise key messages about the Reviewโ€™s findings and why regulation matters
  • ๐Ÿ“„ Summary Sheets โ€” one-page summaries of the Review for print or email sharing
  • ๐Ÿ“ข Social Media Toolkit โ€” shareable posts and graphics to raise public awareness

These resources will be added soon โ€” keep checking back, or watch for announcements in the CMA newsletter.


๐Ÿ›๏ธ How to Contact Your MP

Reaching out to your local Member of Parliament is one of the most effective ways to create change. Personal, respectful communication has real impact โ€” especially when it comes from a practitioner who serves their local community.

  1. ๐Ÿ” Find your MP or Senator using the official website: aph.gov.au/Senators_and_Members
  2. ๐Ÿ“ง Send a brief, clear message introducing yourself as a local practitioner and summarising why the Review matters.
  3. ๐Ÿ“ž Follow up with a phone call or meeting request if you donโ€™t receive a reply within two weeks.
  4. ๐Ÿ’ฌ Share your success โ€” let CMA know how your contact went! Weโ€™ll highlight member stories to inspire others.

When you reach out, remember: youโ€™re representing a professional community that has served Australians safely, compassionately, and effectively for decades. Your voice matters.