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Acupuncture Under Workers' Compensation in Australia: A State-by-State Guide for Practitioners
Medically Reviewed by Derek Doran, BHSc (Acupuncture) · AHPRA Registered · AACMA Member · Updated April 9, 2026
April 9, 202610 min readBy Derek Doran
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can acupuncture be covered under WorkCover in Australia?
Yes. In most Australian states and territories, acupuncture provided by an AHPRA-registered Chinese medicine practitioner is a recognised treatment under workers' compensation schemes. A referral from the treating doctor or specialist is typically required.
Do I need a GP referral to treat WorkCover patients with acupuncture?
In most jurisdictions, yes. Acupuncture is classified as a 'referred service' under workers' compensation. The injured worker's treating medical practitioner must issue a referral or request for acupuncture treatment before the practitioner can bill the insurer.
How do I register as a WorkCover acupuncture provider?
Requirements vary by state. In Victoria, you must register directly with WorkSafe Victoria. In NSW, you work through icare and SIRA. In Queensland, you register via WorkCover Queensland's Provider Connect. All states require current AHPRA registration as a baseline.
What conditions can acupuncture treat under WorkCover?
Acupuncture under workers' compensation is primarily approved for work-related musculoskeletal injuries such as back pain, neck pain, shoulder injuries, and repetitive strain injuries. Some jurisdictions also cover stress-related and psychological conditions. The treatment must be deemed 'reasonably necessary' for the work injury.
Is there a limit on the number of acupuncture sessions under WorkCover?
Most schemes allow an initial block of sessions (commonly 6–12) on the treating doctor's referral. Further sessions typically require insurer approval or a treatment review report. Practitioners should document clinical progress at each session to support ongoing approval.
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Derek Doran, BHSc (Acupuncture)
AHPRA Registered (CMR0002211465) · AACMA Member
Derek is the founder of MediChi and a registered acupuncturist with clinical expertise in integrating Western diagnoses with Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment protocols.
Clinically reviewed: April 9, 2026
