Yoga is Back on the Table: Private Health Insurance Benefits
15th April 2025
Yoga Australia applauds the recommendation to reinstate yoga in private health insurance benefits. The Federal Government has accepted the recommendations of the Natural Therapies Review, announced by the former government following the exclusion of 16 natural therapies from private health insurance benefits in 2019.
This signals renewed momentum toward integrated, evidence-informed health and recreation in Australia. It is a decision that reflects years of committed advocacy and the growing recognition of yoga’s role in preventative and therapeutic healthcare.
Following a comprehensive review led by Chief Medical Officer, Professor Michael Kidd AO, the Natural Therapies Review recently recommended the reinstatement of seven of the therapies previously excluded from coverage in 2019, including Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, Alexander Technique, Naturopathy, Shiatsu, and Western herbal medicine.
While implementation is contingent with the discretion of individual insurers, the removal of prohibition marks a significant shift in perspective, and we anticipate it will be embraced by insurers.
“This is the recognition we’ve been working toward,” said Josh Pryor, CEO of Yoga Australia. “It confirms what research—and our community—has always known: yoga changes lives.”
“Beyond private health, we hope this decision helps shape a broader conversation about the role of yoga in programs like the NDIS and community health programs. A long time has passed since yoga first found a place in Australian society, and it’s time for policy to reflect the myriad benefits experienced by increasing numbers of practitioners.”
Since yoga was removed from the health fund rebates, Yoga Australia has remained steadfast in its advocacy, notably participating in the ongoing Natural Therapies Review and contributing to national discussions on the integration of complementary therapies in mainstream healthcare.
The evidence review by the expert advisory panel found moderate certainty that yoga:
- Reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure in people with hypertension.
- Enhances emotional wellbeing in those with anxiety.
- Eases depressive symptoms.
- Improves quality of life for people with low back pain.
“This is the fruit of persistent and collaborative effort,” Josh said.
“We are proud to stand alongside Pilates Association Australia and other partners who have shown unwavering commitment to restoring fair access to these therapies. We congratulate the review panel, along with the current and former government for sustaining this effort.”
“The focus now turns to ensuring the recommendation translates into positive delivery of world-class yoga by Registered Teachers across diverse sectors of care.”
Coverage of natural therapies remains a decision for insurers. Insurers which choose to cover the therapies will work with the natural therapies sector on coverage and to re-establish provider credentialing.
For media enquiries or further information:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 1300 881 451
Website: www.yogaaustralia.org.au
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Yoga Australia is the peak body for yoga teachers and yoga therapists in Australia, bringing together all styles and lineages by defining the national curriculum and professional standards, along with providing continuing education, technical support, advocacy, insurance, and public recognition.
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