About Us
Established in 1987, the Shiatsu Therapy Association of Australia Inc. (STAA) is the National Peak Body representing Shiatsu Therapists.
STAA is dedicated to expanding the awareness and recognition of Shiatsu in the Australian community and its integration into the healthcare system.
The Shiatsu Therapy Association of Australia is made up of Registered Members who comply with professional standards which include Insurance, First Aid and on-going professional development. We also welcome Friends and Associates who do not meet the specific requirements for full registration, but do wish to stay up to date with Shiatsu-related news and be part of our community.
Photo: Lilly at Body Stillness, image by Brad Harris
National Council
Governance of the Association is the responsibility of a National Council comprised of volunteers who are also Shiatsu Practitioners.
The Association is responsible for the development of competencies and standards for Shiatsu Practitioners and training providers and maintains the only national register of Diploma-qualified Shiatsu Practitioners who evidence a commitment to ongoing professional development.
We work closely with training providers that offer the Diploma in Shiatsu and Oriental Therapies - the minimum recognised qualification for STAA membership - and collaborate with relevant government departments to regularly evaluate the Health Training Package, ensuring that the syllabus in Shiatsu and Oriental Therapies and the training provided in Shiatsu is of the highest standard.
Negotiations and lobbying with the government and private health funds is an ongoing feature of STAA’s work on behalf of members.
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STAA maintains a calendar of Shiatsu events and workshops open to both Members and the general public.
​​STAA members pledge to abide by the Association's Code of Standards and Ethics.
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The STAA Council has implemented and monitors Continued Professional Education (CPE) for qualified practitioner members, thereby supporting members and ensuring the highest levels of professional practice.
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Our professional resources include the annual journal Pointers and newsletter Tsubo.
Vision
To foster personal, community and environmental wellbeing through the practice of shiatsu.
Mission
To support, represent and advocate for a thriving, adaptable, connected and trusted professional community of shiatsu practitioners across Australia.
Values
To nurture, respect, collaborate and act with integrity.
Meet The Office Bearers
Dan Frankel
He/Him
President
Phuong Tang
She/Her
Treasurer
Lilly Harris
She/Her
Ordinary Member
Bridie Hall
She/Her
Vice President
Ann Hocking
She/Her
Ordinary Member
Linda Rego
She/Her
Ordinary Member
Belinda McIntosh
She/Her
Secretary
Elizabeth Davie
She/Her
Ordinary Member
Waldemar Bandosz
He/Him