anzsco.com.au
ANZSCO 252211Skill level 1Version 5Updated 2026-04-26

Acupuncturist

An Acupuncturist provides traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) acupuncture treatments for a range of conditions in Australian private practice, operating under AHPRA regulation.

Indicative salary range
$55,000 - $100,000 (2025 indicative)

Full-time AUD, 2025 indicative. Wide bands reflect variation by employer, experience, and location.

Labour market demand

Moderate demand; acupuncture is growing in mainstream health settings alongside private practice.

Occupation list membership

Which Department of Home Affairs skilled lists this occupation currently appears on.

  • STSOLShort-Term Skilled Occupation List

    Occupations eligible for shorter-term sponsored visas including Subclass 482 (short-term stream).

Assessing authority

The body that assesses skills for migration purposes for this occupation.

  • CMB
    CMBA

Visa pathways

Australian visa subclasses for which this occupation is currently eligible.

State nominations

States and territories that currently nominate this occupation for skilled migration.

CodeState / TerritoryDetails
WAWestern AustraliaView nomination →
SASouth AustraliaView nomination →
ACTAustralian Capital TerritoryView nomination →

Key duties

  • Assess patients using TCM diagnostic principles
  • Perform acupuncture treatments including needle insertion and moxa
  • Develop treatment plans and monitor patient outcomes
  • Maintain AHPRA registration and continuing professional development

Skills required

  • TCM acupuncture theory and needling technique
  • TCM pattern differentiation and diagnosis
  • Patient safety and clean needle technique
  • AHPRA registration and Chinese Medicine Board requirements

Typical qualifications pathway

Bachelor of Applied Science (Acupuncture) or equivalent; AHPRA registration with Chinese Medicine Board. CMBA assesses qualifications.

Visa & occupation list information

Listed on STSOL, supporting subclasses 190 and 491 For advice on which pathway suits your circumstances, consult a registered MARA migration agent.

anzsco.com.au is information-only. For personalised advice on your situation, always consult a registered MARA migration agent.

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Occupation record last reviewed by editorial team: