Shiatsu Therapy Association of Australia
Discover Shiatsu Therapy
Shiatsu is holistic therapeutic bodywork developed in Japan and founded on principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. A treatment can involve massage, pressure point and meridian stretching, breathwork, dietary adjustments, moxibustion and cupping, kinesio taping and corrective exercise. Shiatsu is a powerful yet relaxing mode of healing. You can find out more about Shiatsu, its efficacy and suitability for your condition, what you can expect from a treatment and where you'll find a qualified shiatsu therapist in Australia from this website.
REBATES
Private Health Funds
STAA welcomes the 2025 Federal Government decision to recommend health rebate subsidies for Shiatsu. Evidence in support of shiatsu's therapeutic benefits was accepted by the Natural Health Review Panel. The panel recommended shiatsu be reinstated for private health insurance rebates. As of May 2025 this process is underway. It is welcome news after lobbying the federal government for seven years. It's a warranted and suitable endorsement of shiatsu as effective complimentary healthcare for many Australians. The next step is to regain individual practitioner provider numbers from health insurance companies. STAA is assuring each health insurance company of our readiness to be reinstated on their systems. Shiatsu practitioners will need up to date registration to once again offer health rebates. (Please refer to Rebates page for further details)
NDIS
There have been changes to NDIS rules (October 2024) which might effect Shiatsu practitioners. Please refer to NDIS guidelines. In some cases NDIS plan management may cover Shiatsu Therapy. STAA is dedicated to following the progress of both NDIS and health rebate initiatives. We will continue to advocate for Shiatsu as an effective evidence-based modality.
