The current state of legislation and education of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Australia

Objective This paper aims to analyse the institutional design and practical challenges of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Australia based on its legislative history, current regulatory framework, and educational system development, thereby providing references for TCM internationalisation under China’s ‘Belt and Road’ Initiative. Methods This study delineates Australia’s TCM legislative trajectory, dissects its registration and regulatory architecture, and examines its TCM education evolution – from private training to university programs – along with curriculum, faculty, and clinical placement features, while identifying existing challenges. Results Australia established TCM’s legal status via state-led pilots through to national legislation, with a registration system centred on public safety. Its education integrates TCM–Western medicine but faces inconsistent curricula and language barriers. TCM lacks Medicare coverage, and some herbal medicines are restricted. Conclusions Australia’s experience shows a pathway for TCM institutionalisation in Western societies. Refining standards, optimising education through China–Australia cooperation, and enhancing public communication will promote TCM’s sustainable development and provide replicable models for its internationalisation.