Can I claim private health insurance rebates for yoga again?

It seems like this news is everywhere at the moment in the industry. People who rely on yoga for peace and empowerment eagerly anticipate the return of private health insurance rebates for their practice. Following a time of absence from benefits coverage, a government review has delivered promising news by advocating for the restoration of rebates for numerous natural therapies, including yoga.

But the burning question on everyone’s mind is, quite understandably: when will this actually happen? When will we reach the moment when yoga class fees start appearing more manageable on our bank statements? We will explore the specific details and determine the next steps in this blog.

But first, a brief trip back to 2019 to understand the original reasons that led to the removal of yoga and other natural therapies from private health insurance plans.

The government conducted an evaluation at that time, which revealed inadequate clinical effectiveness evidence for several natural modalities, including yoga, to support continued insurance coverage. Numerous people who benefited from these practices showed disappointment at this decision.

Almost a green light

Fast forward to 2025 and the latest change in policy reflects new developments in scientific research and knowledge regarding this field. The emerging body of stronger evidence shows that yoga positively affects multiple health and wellness dimensions. Research has demonstrated potential benefits of yoga therapy for managing hypertension blood pressure levels, as well as enhancing emotional health for anxious individuals, alleviating depression symptoms and improving the life quality of people suffering from lower back pain. The current surge in acknowledgment of yoga’s advantages demonstrates the expanding scientific evidence that confirms its effectiveness.

First and foremost, it’s fantastic news that yoga has been recognised alongside six other beneficial practices: The government has acknowledged Pilates alongside Tai Chi and the Alexander Technique as beneficial practices together with Naturopathy, Shiatsu and Western Herbal Medicine. After conducting a detailed review the recommendation has been made to recognise the health and wellbeing advantages these therapies offer. This development represents an important milestone for yoga enthusiasts by confirming the positive effects we observe in both our physical and mental well-being.

The waiting game

This recommendation, however, represents only a portion of the complete process. The government recognises the review findings but rebate claims require further steps to come into being. The legislation must now pass through Parliament, which is an essential stage. The formal legal process to establish the changes must occur before health insurers can start operating according to the new rules.

The government has committed to facilitating a “timely re-inclusion” of these therapies and the recent developments provide strong indications that the necessary processes have started moving forward. The complex nature of parliamentary procedures however, makes it difficult to establish a precise timeline. Anyone who practices yoga for a long time understands the importance of patience…

After legislative barriers have been overcome, private health insurance providers will then inherit the responsibility to reimburse their members. The decision to provide coverage for these reinstated therapies rests with the funds. The government has made recommendations that point to favourable results, but every provider will probably evaluate its policies and member impact. You should monitor your specific fund for updates throughout the next few months.

Teacher Credentials: why they are likely to matter

Now let’s address another crucial aspect: Will every yoga session and teacher become eligible for rebates all of a sudden? Present indications confirm that this situation will not occur. The likelihood exists that rebate eligibility will depend upon the professional qualifications and registration status of your teacher. By maintaining training standards through necessary qualifications the system ensures that practitioners providing services meet professional requirements.

The exact criteria remain undisclosed but experts predict that teachers will need registration with recognised professional bodies and appropriate qualifications that meet set standards. This development is a worthy advance in maintaining high safety measures in the field and students are recommended to consider discussing their teacher’s credentials.

Good news built on good science

Whilst mainstream science may only just be catching up to what yoga teachers and students have ‘known and felt’ for centuries, it’s very welcome news indeed that more people will be able to attend more classes.  It’s a “watch this space” situation, but with a really promising outlook.

At Mount Martha Yoga, studio owner and teacher Emily has a Diploma of Meditation and Mindfulness and a Diploma of Classical Yoga, both of which are recognised qualifications for membership to Yoga Australia and the Meditation Association of Australia, the peak national bodies for their fields.

If you are searching for ‘yoga classes near me’ or yoga on Mornington Peninsula, the studio offers a beautiful space to move, breathe and reconnect with yourself. Reach out to Emily today and start to feel better now.