National licensing framework for cosmetic surgery

Background

On 1 September 2023, Australian Health Ministers approved the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC) review of standards for cosmetic procedures and a new licensing framework for facilities where these procedures are performed. 

The Tasmanian Department of Health is now seeking feedback on proposed changes to implement the National Licensing Framework for Cosmetic Surgery (NLFCS) within Tasmania. This framework was developed following urgent reforms to the cosmetic surgery sector announced by Health Ministers in September 2022.

The NLFCS aims to ensure that all facilities performing cosmetic surgery meet national safety and quality standards, thereby safeguarding patients and improving the quality of care. 

State and Territory government have committed to implementing the new licensing framework.

Key objectives

The NLFCS has been developed to:

• Support safe care for all patients and consumers
• Recognise and build on the current strengths of state and territory legislation
• Specifically target areas where there is a greatest risk of harm to consumers of cosmetic surgery
• Link licensing requirements with accreditation to appropriate national safety and quality standards.

Proposed regulatory powers requiring legislative change

To comply with the NLFCS, we plan to introduce powers to enable us to:

1. Enter, inspect and investigate both licensed and unlicensed facilities.
2. Monitor compliance with licensing requirements.
3. Investigate reported or suspected non-compliance or risks to patient safety.
4. Access cosmetic surgery registers maintained by facilities.
5. Immediately suspend a licensed or unlicensed facility, pending further investigation.

While Tasmania already meets most of these requirements, legislative changes will be necessary to fully implement the remaining powers.

Timeline for implementation

The transition to the new framework will be completed by September 2026, with implementation in Tasmania beginning in late 2025.

We want your feedback

We invite you to provide feedback on the proposed implementation through the online form linked below. Your input will help inform the effective and safe implementation of the NLFCS in Tasmania.

Provide Feedback

Thank you for your participation in shaping the future of cosmetic surgery safety and regulation in Tasmania.

Feedback

View more information on the National Licensing Framework and the National Safety and Quality Cosmetic Surgery Standards