Acupuncture for pain management in Australia: Current status and future directions

Chronic pain affects 3.6 million Australians and this number is projected to reach 5.23 million by 2050, costing A$73.2 billion annually. Current care relies heavily on pharmacotherapy—particularly opioids—which leads to approximately 150 hospitalizations, 14 emergency visits, and three opioid-related deaths daily. National strategies now promote multimodal and non-pharmacological options. One of these options—acupuncture—offers a safe, evidence-based alternative with opioid-sparing effects for patients with acute and chronic pain. Therefore, its current application across various settings highlights its strong potential for integration into mainstream care. Here, we conducted a structured review of peer-reviewed literature, regulatory documents, workforce reports, and government publications on acupuncture to assess registration and education standards, workforce capacity, and professional and consumer acceptance of acupuncture. Australian pain management guidelines (2015–2025) that included acupuncture were systematically identified and evaluated. Acupuncture is a nationally registered profession with the protected title of “Acupuncturist.” Over 4800 practitioners currently provide care and consumer and professional attitudes are generally positive. However, public funding is minimal, with access largely dependent on out-of-pocket payments or limited private health insurance rebates. Few Australian guidelines recommend acupuncture for pain, in contrast to its more widespread endorsement in the United States and Europe. Some state health services and hospitals have piloted programs; however, their implementation remains fragmented. Global evidence, consumer acceptance, and the person-centered nature of acupuncture allow it to complement existing pain strategies and reduce opioid reliance in Australia. However, to achieve this, the profession must strengthen education in contemporary pain science, foster inter-professional collaboration, and expand research on its role in multidisciplinary care. Advocating for public funding is also critical. Embedding acupuncture within an integrated pain framework can better meet consumer needs, improve outcomes, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the healthcare system.