Major CPAP Brands in Australia

Quick answer: Major CPAP brands in Australia include ResMed, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare and Philips Respironics. These brands supply CPAP, APAP and BiPAP devices through sleep clinics and home oxygen providers. Your sleep specialist helps match the brand and mask type to your sleep study results, pressure needs and comfort preferences.

What are CPAP machines and how do they work?

CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. A CPAP machine is a medical device that delivers a steady flow of air through a mask to keep the upper airway open during sleep. It is commonly used to treat obstructive sleep apnoea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts overnight.

Most devices in Australia operate within a pressure range of 4 to 20 centimetres of water pressure (cm H2O). Many modern machines include heated humidifiers and ramp features that start at a lower pressure and gradually increase over 5 to 45 minutes. Data tracking is also standard, with usage hours and leak information stored for review by your sleep clinic.

ResMed: an Australian-founded CPAP brand

ResMed is one of the major CPAP brands in Australia and was founded in Sydney in 1989. The company designs and manufactures CPAP, APAP and BiPAP devices, along with masks and accessories. ResMed products are widely available through Australian sleep clinics, CPAP suppliers and some pharmacies.

Popular device lines include the AirSense 10 and AirSense 11 series, while mask options include the AirFit and F20 ranges. ResMed machines typically connect to the myAir app, allowing users to view nightly usage scores and mask fit data. The brand is a common choice in both public hospital sleep services and private sleep centres across Australia.

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare: New Zealand-based CPAP brand

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare is headquartered in Auckland and supplies CPAP equipment to the Australian market. The brand is known for its CPAP and APAP machines, heated humidifiers and mask systems. Devices are distributed through authorised sleep clinics and home healthcare providers.

Common device families include the SleepStyle series, while masks such as the Simplus and Eson are used by Australian patients. Fisher & Paykel machines often feature ThermoSmart humidification, which adjusts moisture output based on room temperature. The brand is frequently prescribed alongside ResMed in Australian sleep medicine.

Philips Respironics: CPAP brand and recent recalls

Philips Respironics is a global CPAP manufacturer with products sold in Australia through sleep clinics and durable medical equipment suppliers. The brand offers CPAP, APAP and BiPAP devices, including the DreamStation and SystemOne ranges. Masks such as the Amara View and Wisp have also been used by Australian patients.

It is important for Australian patients to know that Philips Respironics issued a recall in 2021 affecting certain CPAP and BiPAP machines due to sound abatement foam degradation. If you use a Philips device, contact your sleep clinic or supplier to check whether your serial number is affected and whether replacement or repair is required under Australian therapeutic goods regulations.

Other CPAP brands available in Australia

Besides ResMed, Fisher & Paykel and Philips Respironics, other brands may be available through specialist sleep centres or online retailers. These can include brands such as BMC, DeVilbiss and Somnetics, though availability varies by state and supplier. Mask-only brands such as Mirage and ResMed-compatible alternatives are also sold by some Australian CPAP retailers.

When considering a less common brand, check whether the device is registered with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and whether local service support exists. Warranty terms, mask compatibility and access to replacement parts can differ significantly between brands.

CPAP cost, Medicare and private health insurance

CPAP devices in Australia are generally purchased privately or through private health insurance extras cover. Medicare does not usually fund the purchase of a CPAP machine for outpatient obstructive sleep apnoea, though public hospital sleep clinics may loan equipment in some circumstances. Private health funds may contribute towards the device and mask, depending on your level of cover and waiting periods.

A sleep study is typically required before a CPAP device is prescribed. Medicare rebates may apply to eligible sleep studies and specialist consultations, but the rebate amount depends on the item number and whether the provider bulk bills. Ask your sleep clinic for a written quote that includes the machine, mask, humidifier and any setup fees.

How to choose a CPAP brand and mask

Choosing a CPAP brand should be guided by your sleep study results, pressure requirements and mask comfort. Nasal masks, full face masks and nasal pillows suit different breathing patterns and facial shapes. Your sleep scientist or CPAP consultant can help you trial masks before committing to a purchase.

Consider factors such as noise level, humidifier performance, data reporting and travel size. Many Australian suppliers offer mask fitting appointments and short trial periods. It is also worth checking whether your chosen brand has a local service centre for repairs and replacement parts under warranty.

Steps to start CPAP therapy in Australia

1. Visit your GP and request a referral to a sleep specialist or sleep clinic.
2. Attend a consultation and discuss symptoms such as snoring, daytime fatigue and witnessed apnoeas.
3. Complete an eligible sleep study, which may be attended in a sleep centre or performed at home.
4. Receive a CPAP prescription and pressure setting from your sleep specialist.
5. Attend a mask fitting appointment and trial different mask styles with a CPAP supplier.
6. Purchase or rent a device, then schedule a follow-up review to check pressure, leak and usage data.

FAQs

Which CPAP brands are most common in Australia?

ResMed, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare and Philips Respironics are among the major CPAP brands in Australia. ResMed is Australian-founded, while Fisher & Paykel is based in New Zealand. All three are widely supplied through Australian sleep clinics and CPAP providers.

Does Medicare pay for CPAP machines?

Medicare generally does not fund the purchase of a CPAP machine for outpatient sleep apnoea. Private health insurance extras may contribute towards the cost, depending on your policy. Public hospital sleep services may loan equipment in some cases.

Do I need a sleep study before buying a CPAP machine?

Yes. A sleep study is usually required to diagnose obstructive sleep apnoea and determine the appropriate pressure setting. Your sleep specialist will write a CPAP prescription based on the results.

Can I buy a CPAP machine online in Australia?

You can buy CPAP devices from Australian online retailers, but a prescription from a sleep specialist is recommended. Buying without professional guidance may result in an incorrect pressure setting or unsuitable mask.

What should I do if my CPAP machine is recalled?

Contact your sleep clinic or CPAP supplier immediately. They can check your device serial number against recall notices and advise on repair, replacement or alternative therapy under Australian regulatory requirements.

How often should CPAP masks and filters be replaced?

Mask cushions are typically replaced every few months, while filters may need changing monthly or as directed by the manufacturer. Follow the device user manual and your supplier’s advice for replacement schedules.

This article provides general information about CPAP brands and sleep health in Australia and is not medical advice. Speak with a qualified sleep specialist or your GP before starting or changing CPAP therapy.

Related reading

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