Acupuncture from a rented clinic room

Individual clients paying per session, some claiming part of the cost back through their private health fund if you are a recognised provider.

A fee per consultation, often with a longer first visit, plus extras like cupping or herbal advice if you are qualified to offer them. Room hire is usually a set rate per day or half-day, or a share of takings.

• Recognised acupuncture or Chinese medicine qualification
• Calm, caring manner with clients
• Basic bookkeeping and client records

• Acupuncturists must be registered with the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia (via AHPRA) to practise and use the title, so check the current requirements
• Professional indemnity insurance is generally expected for registered practitioners, check what your registration requires
• Advertising of health services is tightly regulated, so check AHPRA advertising guidelines before promoting yourself
• Infection control, needle disposal and record keeping rules, check your state health department requirements
• Health fund rebates vary by fund, so confirm each fund's provider requirements before promising clients a rebate
• Room hire costs are due whether or not clients book, so start with the fewest days you can

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $2,000 to $8,000, depending on your equipment, room hire arrangements and how you promote yourself. Room hire is due whether or not clients book, so start with the fewest days you can.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how many days you rent a room, how many clients you see and your session fees. That is revenue before room hire and other costs.

Check the current requirements. Acupuncturists must be registered with the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia (via AHPRA) to practise and use the title. Also check professional indemnity insurance, AHPRA advertising guidelines, state infection control rules and each health fund's provider requirements.