Effective 2 September 2025
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) has announced a series of new national guidelines aimed at strengthening the safety and regulation of non-surgical cosmetic procedures — including treatments such as Botox and dermal fillers.
These updated rules, effective from 2 September 2025, will apply to all registered health practitioners who perform or advertise cosmetic injectable procedures. The changes follow growing concerns about inconsistent standards, inadequate training, and misleading advertising in what has become a multi-billion dollar industry.
Key Changes Under the New Guidelines
1. Mandatory Training and Experience
Practitioners wishing to perform cosmetic injectable procedures must now undergo additional training to ensure they are properly qualified. This is particularly important for professionals expanding their scope of practice. Nurses, for example, will be required to complete a set period of clinical experience before performing these procedures independently.
2. Patient Safeguards for Young Australians
For patients under 18 years of age, a mandatory seven-day cooling-off period will apply between the initial consultation and any treatment. In addition, advertising cosmetic procedures to individuals under 18 will be completely prohibited.
3. Advertising and Social Media Restrictions
The guidelines introduce stricter rules on advertising, including:
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A ban on the use of influencer testimonials and glamorised language
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A requirement to clearly state the qualifications of the practitioner
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Stronger controls on how higher-risk procedures are advertised
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Prohibition of any advertising that trivialises or sexualises treatments
These changes aim to ensure that patients are receiving clear, factual, and ethical information when making decisions about their care.
Supporting Patient Safety and Ethical Practice
As a Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Rohan Page welcomes these reforms as a necessary step toward improving safety, transparency, and accountability across the cosmetic industry. With extensive training and a focus on long-term patient outcomes, Dr Page believes that high standards are essential — not only in surgical practice, but also in how procedures are discussed and delivered.
Patients are encouraged to verify their practitioner’s credentials through the official AHPRA register at www.ahpra.gov.au and to seek out qualified professionals who are committed to evidence-based care.
The new AHPRA guidelines mark a positive shift in the regulation of cosmetic injectables in Australia. Whether you are considering a procedure or simply want to stay informed, understanding these changes will help you make confident, safe choices about your healthcare.
Any cosmetic or medical procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.