No-Gap TAC Acupuncture

From 1 November 2026, I provide eligible TAC-funded acupuncture appointments without charging patients an out-of-pocket gap.

Previously, the difference between TAC funding and the cost of acupuncture could leave patients with additional expenses.

For someone managing injuries following a transport accident, particularly when they're also dealing with time away from work or other medical expenses, these extra costs can be a significant burden.

The increase in TAC's acupuncture payment rates means I can now accept the applicable TAC payment without charging an additional gap for eligible consultations.

I think that's a welcome change. Financial pressure shouldn't create another unnecessary barrier to accessing appropriate care.

What does no-gap mean?

If your acupuncture appointment meets TAC's funding requirements, you won't have to pay the difference between the TAC payment and my usual consultation fee.

If TAC funding doesn't apply, I'll discuss your options and any costs before treatment.

Who is eligible for TAC-funded acupuncture?

Within the first 90 days from the date of your accident

TAC generally does not require separate prior approval for acupuncture when:

• You have a TAC claim number.

• Acupuncture has been recommended by your doctor or another health professional.

• The treatment relates to injuries from your transport accident.

Your claim and treatment must still meet TAC's funding requirements.

Receiving other allied-health treatment?

If you're already receiving physiotherapy, chiropractic treatment or another allied-health service for the same accident-related injury, TAC may not routinely fund acupuncture at the same time.

Exceptions may be considered where concurrent treatment is clinically justified.

Your current funding eligibility can be checked, and any necessary additional approval clarified before treatment.

More than 90 days from the date of your accident?

You may still be eligible for TAC-funded acupuncture.

However, if you're approaching or beyond 90 days and further treatment hasn't already been authorised, TAC approval is generally required.

You may wish to speak with your doctor about recommending acupuncture for your ongoing accident-related injuries.

Where further treatment is being requested, I may also need to prepare an Allied Health Treatment and Recovery Plan for TAC to consider.

Approval is also required if more than six months have passed since you've received any TAC-funded treatment or service.

Acupuncture for Pain and Injury

People experience different types of pain and physical discomfort following transport accidents.

During your consultation, I'll ask about your injuries, medical history, symptoms and any other treatment you're receiving.

We can discuss whether acupuncture is an appropriate option for your circumstances and how it may fit into your broader care.

You can also read more about my approach to acupuncture for pain and injury.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does TAC cover acupuncture?

Yes. Acupuncture is one of the treatments TAC may fund for eligible transport accident injuries. During the first 90 days from the date of your accident, separate prior approval is generally not required when TAC's conditions are met.

Do I need a referral from my GP?

TAC requires acupuncture to be recommended by your doctor or another health professional. This doesn't necessarily mean you need a formal GP referral.

If you're unsure, speak with your treating health professional or contact TAC.

Can I have acupuncture while receiving physiotherapy?

Possibly. TAC doesn't routinely fund concurrent allied-health treatments for the same injury, but exceptions can be considered. Your funding arrangements should be checked before treatment.

What if my accident happened more than 90 days ago?

You may still be eligible. Further TAC approval is generally required unless your treatment has already been authorised.

You can discuss acupuncture with your doctor, and additional treatment information or a recovery plan may be needed.

What if my TAC claim hasn't been accepted yet?

You can contact TAC on 1300 654 329 to check the progress of your claim and whether acupuncture may be funded.

A TAC claim number alone doesn't guarantee payment. We'll need to clarify funding before proceeding with a no-gap appointment.

Does TAC pay for Chinese herbal medicine?

No. TAC acupuncture funding doesn't cover Chinese herbal medicine. Any separate herbal consultation or prescription costs would be discussed with you beforehand.

Book Your TAC Acupuncture Appointment

If you've recently been injured in a transport accident and have a TAC claim, you're welcome to contact me about arranging acupuncture.

I'll help you understand the booking process and check your funding arrangements before treatment.

Call Coburg Chinese Medicine: (03) 9041 6569

Coburg Chinese Medicine
197 Sydney Road, Coburg VIC 3058

Want to check your eligibility directly?

Contact TAC on 1300 654 329 or visit TAC's official acupuncture information.