Osteopathy is as a wholeistic manual therapy, based on biomechanical principles, which seeks to treat underlying causes and not just symptoms. Osteopathy treats musculo-skeletal problems and other body disorders, emphasising the relationships between body structure and function and the ability of the body to heal itself. In 2007, Osteopathy celebrated 100 years in Australia

Osteopathic treatment is recognized and reimbursed by Workers’ compensation, the various motor accident authorities, Medicare and private health insurers

Osteopaths require government registration in order to practice in Australia.

University Training in Osteopathy

There are currently four university courses for osteopathy available. All of these courses are five years full time and on completion, graduates may be eligible for registration in all Australian states and territories.

Osteopath Melbourne Training – RMIT

RMIT offers a Bachelor of Applied Science (Complementary Medicine – Osteopathy Streams) and Master of Osteopathy. Average student contact hours are 30 hours per week of lectures, tutorials, practicals and clinic.

Osteopath Melbourne Training – Victoria University

Victoria University offers a Bachelor of Science (Clinical Science) and Master of Health Science (Osteopathy) degree course. Students must complete both the Bachelors and Masters programs to be eligible for registration as an Osteopath in Australia.

The course subjects include Anatomy, Biomechanics, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Osteopathic Diagnosis & Technique, Clinical Diagnosis & Management, Diagnostic Imaging and Psychology. The Masters includes a clinical practical component progressing onto treating patients under supervision in later years.

Osteopath Lismore Training – Southern Cross University

This is a five year course with the first component being a three year Bachelor of Clinical Sciences, with a double major in Osteopathic Studies and Human Structure and Function. The second component is a two year Master of Osteopathic Medicine.

The initial focus of the course is medical sciences with clinical osteopathy practice increasing in the latter part of the course

Osteopath Sydney training previously offered at the University of Western Sydney is not currently being offered.