AACMA Newsletter - 12 September 2025
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12 September 2025
This Issue:
AACMA Webinar Coming Soon: Understanding GST for Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Practitioners
Are you sure that your services are GST-free? What about pills, teas, or ointments you provide? When can you and when should you register for GST? GST can be complex but getting it right can be beneficial for you. In this practical, easy to understand webinar, Australia’s leading independent GST advisor Ken Fehily (who was involved in writing the GST laws and ATO rulings) will explain what every acupuncture and Chinese medicine practitioner needs to know. You’ll learn:
Whether you’re just starting out or reviewing your GST position, this session will give you the clarity and confidence to get it right—and stay compliant. Date: Wednesday, 24 September 2025
Comprehensive Review on Acupuncture for Pain Published by AACMA Member Dr John McDonald
The journal for the European Society of Medicine, the “Medical Research Archives”, has recently published a review article on acupuncture for pain by AACMA member, Dr John McDonald. The article titled “Efficacy, Safety and Mechanisms of Acupuncture and Electroacupuncture for Pain: A Narrative Review” is an open access publication and now available online to view by following this link. This is an excellent and comprehensive review of the current research on acupuncture for pain which highlights how research often underestimates acupuncture effectiveness as well as providing a valuable review of the research behind the mechanisms of acupuncture. It is an important read for members and public alike. John is encouraging members to share this review far and wide to help educate the public, policy makers, and healthcare workers. AACMA appreciates the ongoing contributions Dr John McDonald makes to the field of acupuncture research to strengthen its recognition and use in healthcare both in Australia and around the world.
Save the Date: AACMAC 2026: Returning to Melbourne!
We’re excited to announce that AACMAC 2026 will be held at Pullman Melbourne on the Park from 7–9 August 2026! This stunning venue hosted AACMAC back in 2019, where we saw record-high attendance and received overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees. We’re thrilled to be returning to such a vibrant and well-loved location. Following AACMAC’s nomination for Association Event of the Year by Association Forum this year, we’re more inspired than ever to deliver another unforgettable experience. More details about AACMAC 2026 and ticketing information will be released early next year, so members, stay tuned and make sure you don’t miss out!
NEW RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT: One of the major difficulties of research into the effectiveness of acupuncture is being able to create double-blind research studies. This is where both the practitioner and the participant/patient are unaware of whether the study participant is receiving real acupuncture or sham acupuncture. Typically, the practitioner would at least be aware because they would have to pretend to needle the control patients. This new validation study, published September 2025, tested a device that is able to blind both the practitioner and participant by using a device that hides the visibility of the needle. In the sham device, the needle is blunt and does not penetrate the skin, while the real needle does in the "verum device". Participants and practitioners were asked whether they thought the treatment was real or sham, and for Stomach 36 (Zusanli) the results suggested effective blinding. However, Large Intestine 4 (Hegu) was easier to guess. This could be because Hegu has such a strong Deqi sensation on needling. Overall, this validation study offers a new potential option to be able to enhance clinical research into the efficacy of acupuncture, which is a very positive outcome. Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0965229925000731
MEET THE BOARD: Kim Gatenby
"Fertility is emotional work, but being part of someone’s journey to parenthood is a privilege I never take for granted."
When Kim Gatenby joined the AACMA Board in May this year, she dialled into her very first meeting from a camper van in the Italian Dolomites while on holiday – a start she won’t forget. As Chair of the Disciplinary Committee and the Member Assistance Committee, she’s passionate about being there for members when they need it most. With a background in reproductive health and a long-standing love for Chinese medicine, Kim brings both knowledge and heart to her work on the Board. Here, Kim shares her journey, what inspires her, and what excites her most about the future of the profession. Can you tell us about your role on the Board? What led you to Chinese medicine, and where has your career taken you? What do you enjoy most about being part of AACMA? What area of practice inspires you most? What excites you about the future of our profession?
Two Opportunities to Support Women’s Leadership in the Health Sector
Health Women’s Leadership Scholarships
Partial scholarships valued at $700 - $3,000 are available to support participation in one of four leadership and workplace skill development programs. These programs are designed for women at different stages of their careers who are looking to strengthen their leadership capability. Applications close: Friday 24 October 2025.
2026 Awards for Excellence in Women’s Leadership Nominations are now open for the 2026 Awards for Excellence in Women’s Leadership. The Awards are an excellent opportunity to shine a spotlight on a woman or gender-diverse person in your industry who is creating meaningful change for women, girls, and underrepresented groups. Find out more or submit a nomination here: https://www.wla.edu.au/nominations/
Let’s Talk: Supporting Mental Health at Work: A Video Series by Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue Workplace Mental Health: Special Release to Partners presents a three-part video series titled “Let’s Talk”, designed to support mental health in the workplace across all levels of an organization. Video 1: How to Check In with a Colleague (for employees) offers guidance on recognising when a colleague might be struggling and how to approach them with care. It covers starting conversations, listening effectively, offering support, and maintaining confidentiality. Suggested tools include Beyond Blue’s Wellbeing Action Tool and resources on supporting others with mental health issues. Video 2: Managing for Mental Health (for managers) focuses on supporting teams through change and uncertainty. It explains psychological safety, managing psychosocial hazards, and building trust. Additional resources include the Think Again podcast episode on psychosocial risk, the Burnout Check-In Tool, and a webinar on burnout prevention. Video 3: Bringing Your Mental Health Strategy to Life (for senior leaders, People & Culture, and Health & Safety professionals) explores strategic leadership in mental health. It emphasises leading by example, improving employee experiences, and building a culture of connection.
CPD Reminder: Resources and Recordings Available Online
The 30th November deadline for CPD card submission is fast approaching! If you haven’t completed the required 20 CPD points for the year, more CPD resources can be found on AACMA membership portal! Simply log in the membership dashboard by:
For the first time login, please click the ‘Forgotten Password’ button to set up a password. Username is your email address on AACMA’s record. Once get in your membership dashboard, please click ‘CPD that may interest you – view all’. There is a list of free recordings of previous AACMA webinars. Contents under professional issues are marked next to the topics. There is no quiz or certificate for these recordings. Members are required to write down reflections on their CPD record cards upon completion of watching the recordings in order to claim the related CPD points.
1. Equipment Breakdown and Maintenance When your practice relies on specialised tools and equipment, even a minor breakdown can disrupt your ability to care for patients. From x-ray machines to air conditioners, keeping equipment in good working order is vital not just for efficiency, but for maintaining a safe and professional clinic environment. This month, Guild Insurance shares practical advice on the importance of proactive equipment care, warranties, and maintenance planning. Learn what breakdown insurance does and doesn’t cover, and discover simple steps you can take now to extend the life of your essential tools.
2. Flexi Hose Risks They may look small and harmless, but flexible braided hoses, or flexi hoses, can pose a serious risk to your clinic. A sudden burst could flood your practice over a weekend, leaving you with major damage, lost income, and the stress of unexpected repairs. Guild Insurance outlines the hidden dangers of flexi hoses and the simple steps you can take to protect your business. From regular checks to replacement programs and safe storage tips, discover how to prevent a minor fixture from becoming a major disaster.
Moving or Adding a New Clinic?Please contact our membership team with your new clinic details by email at aacma@acupuncture.org.au so they can apply to the health funds for new provider numbers.
Health fund deadlines to be aware of
Details required when Adding an Additional Clinic:
If you miss the above deadlines, please refer to the below: Reporting Cycle for Health Funds
Ceased practicing at a clinic, please provide the address and the ceased date so we can advise the health funds to remove your details. To check your workplace details or membership go to our website https://www.acupuncture.org.au/ then
If you have issues logging in or setting up a password, please don’t hesitate to contact the membership team 07 3457 1800 we are happy to assist you.
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