How to Choose a CPAP Machine in Australia (2026 Guide)

Medically reviewed by Dr Miriam Vassallo, MD MRCP FRACP — Respiratory & Sleep Medicine Specialist, Breathe Well Cleveland. Last reviewed: 13/6/2026

If you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnoea and told to start CPAP therapy, the number of devices, brands, and configurations available can be overwhelming. This guide explains what actually matters when choosing a CPAP machine in Australia — in plain terms, from a clinic that both prescribes and sells them.

What is a CPAP Machine?

A CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine treats obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) by delivering a gentle, constant stream of pressurised air through a mask while you sleep. The air pressure acts as a pneumatic splint, keeping your upper airway open and preventing the collapses that cause apnoea events, snoring, and disrupted sleep.

CPAP therapy is the gold-standard first-line treatment for moderate-to-severe OSA and is highly effective when used consistently. Most patients notice significant improvement in daytime energy and sleep quality within the first few weeks.

Do You Need a Prescription for a CPAP Machine in Australia?

Not necessarily. In Australia, CPAP machines are regulated medical devices and are included on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). While a prescription is not legally required to purchase a CPAP machine from most suppliers, it is strongly recommended that treatment be guided by a medical practitioner following appropriate assessment.

Before starting CPAP therapy, patients should undergo a sleep study to confirm the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnoea and determine the most appropriate treatment settings. A sleep physician, respiratory physician, or other suitably qualified medical practitioner may recommend:

An Auto-CPAP (APAP) device with a prescribed pressure range
A fixed-pressure CPAP device
Humidification settings, if required
Additional therapy considerations based on individual clinical needs

At Breathe Well, our specialists can arrange sleep studies, diagnose sleep apnoea, and provide personalised CPAP treatment recommendations to help ensure therapy is safe, effective, and tailored to your needs. Contact us to book a sleep consultation.

CPAP vs APAP vs BiPAP vs ASV — What Is the Difference?

This is the most common question we receive from new patients.

Fixed-pressure CPAP delivers a single, constant pressure all night — set by your specialist based on your sleep study data. It is simple, reliable, and effective once the correct pressure is known.

APAP (Automatic Positive Airway Pressure) adjusts pressure breath-by-breath within a prescribed range, responding to your actual airway events in real time. Most patients find APAP more comfortable than fixed pressure, particularly in the first weeks of therapy when pressure needs can fluctuate. APAP is the most commonly prescribed device type for new OSA patients in Australia.

BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure) delivers two pressure levels — a higher pressure on inhalation and a lower pressure on exhalation. It is prescribed for patients who cannot tolerate APAP/CPAP pressures, those with complex sleep-disordered breathing, or patients with conditions such as obesity hypoventilation syndrome or COPD. BiPAP is not a standard first-line therapy for straightforward OSA.

ASV (Adaptive Servo-Ventilation) is an advanced form of positive airway pressure therapy used to treat certain types of sleep-disordered breathing, particularly central sleep apnoea, complex sleep apnoea, and breathing instability during sleep.

Unlike standard CPAP therapy, which delivers a constant pressure, ASV continuously monitors your breathing pattern throughout the night and automatically adjusts the level of support it provides on a breath-by-breath basis. This helps maintain a more regular breathing pattern and can improve sleep quality, oxygen levels, and daytime symptoms.

ASV may be recommended for patients who continue to experience central apnoeas despite CPAP therapy or who have specific conditions affecting the brain’s control of breathing during sleep.

Before commencing ASV therapy, a comprehensive sleep assessment and specialist review are required to determine whether it is the most appropriate treatment option.

Which should you choose? Follow your prescription. If your specialist has prescribed APAP with a range (e.g. 6–12 cmH₂O), purchase an APAP device such as the ResMed AirSense 10 or 11 AutoSet. If you have a set pressure, a fixed-pressure device is appropriate — though APAP devices can also run in fixed-pressure mode.

ResMed AirSense 10 vs AirSense 11 — Which Is Better?

ResMed is the world’s leading CPAP manufacturer and their AirSense range represents the majority of new CPAP prescriptions in Australia. Here is how the current two flagship models compare:

Feature	AirSense 10 AutoSet	AirSense 11 AutoSet
AutoSense algorithm	OS 10	OS 11 (updated)
Mask fit detection	Yes	Yes (improved)
myAir app	Yes	Yes (redesigned)
Humidifier	HumidAir integrated	HumidAir integrated
ClimateLine heated tube	Compatible	Compatible
Cellular data	Yes	Yes
Noise level	~26 dBA	~27 dBA
Price approx. (inc. mask)	From $1,150 AUD	From $1,450 AUD

AirSense 10 is a proven, widely-supported device with the largest installed base in Australia. Accessories, replacement parts, and mask compatibility are broad. It is an excellent choice for most patients.

AirSense 11 introduces the updated AutoSense OS 11 algorithm, which ResMed states provides improved detection of flow limitation and more refined pressure responses. The myAir app experience is also more polished.

For most new patients, either device will be clinically equivalent. If budget is a consideration, the AirSense 10 delivers the same core therapy outcomes. If you prefer the latest technology and a more guided setup experience, the AirSense 11 is worth the additional cost.

What About Travel CPAP Machines?

The ResMed AirMini is a travel-specific APAP device weighing just 300g — the lightest CPAP machine on the market. It connects to compatible ResMed masks (F20, F30, N20, P10) and is FAA-approved for use on aircraft.

The AirMini is not designed as a primary therapy device — the humidification system is less capable than a full machine and it does not have an integrated display. Most patients use it alongside a standard AirSense as a dedicated travel unit.

What Should a CPAP Package Include?

When buying a CPAP machine in Australia, a package should at least include:

CPAP or APAP device
Integrated humidifier and water chamber
Power supply and cord
Standard CPAP tubing (22mm)
A mask — nasal pillows, nasal mask, or full-face mask
Travel bag (varies by package)

Breathe Well’s packages include a mask of your choice from our available range. If you are unsure which mask type suits you, our team can advise based on your breathing pattern and sleeping position — nasal pillows suit side-sleepers and mouth-breathers often need a full-face mask.

How Much Does a CPAP Machine Cost in Australia?

CPAP machines in Australia typically range from $900–$2,500 AUD depending on the model and package inclusions:

Device	Approx. price (inc. mask)
ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet + mask	From $1,150
ResMed AirSense 11 AutoSet + mask	From $1,450
ResMed AirMini (travel)	From $ 900

Medicare does not cover CPAP machine purchase costs for most patients. Some private health funds provide a benefit under their extras cover — check with your fund under “sleep apnoea equipment” or “CPAP therapy” before purchasing.

Breathe Well offers Zip on all CPAP purchases, allowing you to spread the cost interest-free.

How to Set Up Your CPAP Machine

Initial CPAP setup is straightforward. At Breathe Well, you can either:

Collect and set up in clinic — a technician fits your mask, adjusts headgear, confirms your pressure settings, and walks you through the machine controls (approximately 30 minutes).
Self-setup at home — suitable for patients who are comfortable with technology.

For patients new to CPAP, an in-clinic setup is strongly recommended. Mask fit is the most common cause of early CPAP abandonment — an incorrectly fitted mask causes leaks, discomfort, and disrupted sleep. Getting the fit right from the start significantly improves long-term adherence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a CPAP machine without a prescription in Australia?

Yes. CPAP machines can generally be purchased without a prescription. However, we strongly recommend that CPAP therapy is commenced following a sleep study and assessment by a qualified medical practitioner to ensure the correct diagnosis and treatment settings. At Breathe Well, we can arrange sleep studies and provide expert guidance on the most appropriate CPAP therapy for your individual needs.

How do I know if I need CPAP therapy?

CPAP therapy is prescribed for obstructive sleep apnoea confirmed by a sleep study. Common symptoms include loud snoring, witnessed breathing pauses during sleep, waking unrefreshed, and excessive daytime sleepiness. See your GP for a referral to a sleep specialist if you experience these symptoms.

Does Medicare cover CPAP equipment?

Medicare does not cover CPAP machine purchase for most patients. Some private health extras policies include a CPAP benefit.

How long does a CPAP machine last?

ResMed machines carry a 2-year manufacturer warranty. Most devices last 5–7 years with proper maintenance. The water chamber, tubing, mask, and filters require regular replacement — see your device manual for schedules.

Can I use my CPAP on an aircraft?

Yes. CPAP machines are permitted on aircraft and are typically excluded from carry-on liquid restrictions. The ResMed AirMini is specifically FAA-approved. Notify your airline in advance and bring a letter from your specialist confirming medical necessity.

What if CPAP doesn’t suit me?

A small number of patients cannot tolerate CPAP. Alternatives include BiPAP therapy, oral appliance therapy (mandibular advancement splint fitted by a dentist), nasal EPAP and positional therapy for position-dependent OSA. Our specialists can discuss all options at a consultation.

Ready to start? Shop our full range of CPAP machines or book a sleep consultation with one of our sleep specialists.

How to Choose a CPAP Machine in Australia (2026 Guide)