Pilates Alliance Australasia

On Friday 13th October 2017 Health Minister Greg Hunt announced a reform package under sweeping Turnbull government changes. Many of these changes will benefit us on a personal level, however, this reform presents some significant changes to the public’s ability to claim on Pilates, taking effect from April 2019.

From 2019, private health insurance will no longer cover natural therapies, including aromatherapy, Bowen therapy, Buteyko, Feldenkrais, herbalism, homeopathy, iridology, kinesiology, naturopathy, Pilates, reflexology, Rolfing, shiatsu, tai chi and yoga.

This move comes after a recent review by the Commonwealth Chief Medical Officer found there was no clear evidence of the efficacy of these therapies.

The PAA will continue the major initiative of ‘Promoting Pilates as a Profession’. Our goal is to lobby government bodies, skilled services and the general public on our profession, education standards and ethics. We will combine with promoting clinical based research on the Pilates Method.

I understand that this is a significant announcement. Please be mindful that the impact for your clients may be minimal given the current rebate level. I will keep you informed of any further information I receive.

Jen Guest
PAA President