Shiatsu Therapy Association of Australia

About STAA

The Shiatsu Therapy Association of Australia Inc. (STAA) was established in 1987 as the peak body for shiatsu therapists in Australia.

Its aim is to promote awareness and recognition of shiatsu in the Australian community and integrate it into the healthcare system. 

One of the Association's many responsibilities entails developing competencies and standards for shiatsu therapists and colleges. It also maintains a national list of diploma-qualified shiatsu therapists who are dedicated to continuing their education.

The STAA works closely with colleges that offer the Diploma in Shiatsu and Oriental Therapies, the minimum qualification for membership.

As part of their work, they collaborate with government departments to review the Health Training Package regularly, ensuring that the syllabus for Shiatsu and Oriental Therapies courses and the training provided by colleges are of the highest standard.

Members of STAA commit themselves to following the Association’s Code of Standards and Ethics.

By implementing and monitoring Continued Professional Education (CPE) for members, the STAA Council supports its members and ensures their highest level of professional competence.

There are several professional resources available, including the biannual journal Pointers, Tsubo, a monthly e-newsletter, and brochures developed for member therapists to purchase. Additionally, the Association maintains a calendar of Shiatsu events, workshops, and seminars.

Lobbying and negotiations with government bodies and private health funds are ongoing aspects of STAA’s work on behalf of its members.

STAA Vision

To foster personal, community and environmental wellbeing through the practice of shiatsu.

STAA Mission

To support, represent and advocate for a thriving, adaptable, connected and trusted professional community of shiatsu practitioners across Australia.

Code of Standards and Ethics

The STAA Code of Standards and Ethics includes the following:

• Duty of care
• Professional conduct
• Hygiene
• Confidentiality
• Patient records
• Advertising
• Stationery
• Breach of Code of Standards and Ethics

All members must sign a declaration affirming their compliance with the Code.

About Shiatsu

Shiatsu, a Japanese healing art, involves acupressure, meridian stretching and corrective exercises. It is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine theory that energy moves through channels in the body, called meridians.

Therapists strive to strengthen the body's healing abilities and promote good health by restoring the balance of energy in meridians. 

During the procedure, a practitioner uses their thumbs, palms, elbows, knees, and feet to apply pressure to the body. 

Besides being excellent for maintaining health, Shiatsu can also be used as a preventative therapy.

Some conditions that respond well to shiatsu treatment include:

• Allergies
• Arthritis
• Asthma
• Back, neck and shoulder pain
• Constipation
• Depression
• Digestive problems
• Fatigue
• Headaches and migraine
• Insomnia
• Menstrual issues
• Repetitive strain injuries (RSI)
• Sciatica
• Sports injuries
• Stress

For more information about the Association, call or visit their website.