Acupuncture in a shared clinic room

Adults with pain, stress, sleep or general wellbeing concerns, often through word of mouth or referrals from nearby practitioners. Some clients claim part of the fee through private health extras cover.

A fee for each session, usually higher for a first consultation. Room costs are paid per session or per day, so you can grow your hours as your client list builds.

• Qualified in acupuncture or Chinese medicine
• Calm, caring manner with clients
• Clear record keeping
• Basic bookkeeping and self-promotion

• Registration with the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia is generally needed to practise and use the title, so check this with AHPRA before you start
• Professional indemnity and public liability insurance, check what the clinic's policy does and does not cover
• Infection control, single-use needles and sharps disposal rules in your state or territory
• Advertising rules for health practitioners are strict, check AHPRA's guidelines before writing claims about results
• GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold, check with the ATO

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on your equipment, insurance and how you set up your rented room. Check what the clinic's insurance policy does and does not cover before relying on it.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $9,000, depending on how many clients you book and your session fees. Word of mouth and referrals from nearby practitioners can help build your client base over time.

Registration with the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia is generally needed to practise and use the title, so check this with AHPRA. Also check infection control and sharps rules in your state, AHPRA advertising guidelines, and GST registration with the ATO.