To maintain their status as a Full Member with the Shiatsu Therapy Association of Australia, In addition to maintaining a current First Aid Certificate and holding Professional Indemnity Insurance, therapists are also required to update and continually develop their skills annually through completing a minimum of 20 hours of Continued Professional Education and Development (CPE&D) activities as outlined by the Association. Continued full membership is conditional on the presentation of the current documentation along with a breakdown of CPE&D activities for the membership year which are then ratified by the National Council.

All CPE&D activities must be directly related to the development of clinical competence and professionalism in Shiatsu, and also related areas such as TCM, oriental therapies, energetics, counselling skills, business management and development in the running of a shiatsu practice.

It can be undertaken:

• On a daily basis through reflection/research as part of clinical practice;
• Formal events such as workshops/lectures etc;
• Communication between colleagues or educators;
• Study groups, both formally and informally.    

The following is a list of suggested activities:

• Private study including paid subscriptions to journals, internet, CD Rom, audio/video, short courses online, study and books, case studies to submit as CPE&D. This can be researching clients sign symptoms etc.
• Mentoring & Supervision – to provide or to receive that relate directly to the CPE&D requirements;
• Presentation (unpaid) of a workshop, seminar lecture, conference, public presentation in shiatsu, TCM, oriental therapy or aspects of research, development or practice in these areas;
• Publication of any relevant article – case studies/Pointers etc;
• Post Graduate Study including short courses, certificates, diploma, advance diploma, degree or masters etc.

The key to completing the requirement is to carefully document your hours and supply the relevant evidence with your membership application. For activities that are not directly related to one’s shiatsu practice you will need to supply an accompanying document that clearly sets out:

• A more detailed description of what the course entailed;
• How the activity has enhanced your shiatsu practice;
• How you integrated it into your shiatsu practice.

If you are unclear whether something you are planning to undertake would meet STAA's requirements make sure you contact the Membership Secretary prior to undertaking the activity to gain guidance.