Raising Professional Standards in Australian Massage Therapy
AMSA Code of Ethics

Ethical principles for professional practice

The AMSA Code of Ethics sets out the values and principles expected of members when working with clients, colleagues and the wider community. It supports respectful, accountable and trustworthy professional practice.

Ethical Practice

What the Code of Ethics is designed to protect

The Code supports professional decisions that place client dignity, safety, trust and wellbeing at the centre of practice.

Client dignity and respect Every client must be treated fairly, respectfully and without discrimination.
Professional trust Members must communicate honestly and avoid misleading, exploitative or inappropriate conduct.
Confidentiality and privacy Client information must be protected and handled responsibly.
Accountability Members are responsible for their conduct, decisions and participation in review processes.
Important: The AMSA Code of Ethics supports voluntary professional membership and does not replace Australian law, regulatory obligations or statutory registration requirements.
Ethical Practice Framework

The eight ethical principles

These principles guide AMSA members in making professional decisions that protect clients, strengthen trust and uphold the reputation of the massage profession.

01

Integrity

Members must act honestly and consistently in all professional communications, decisions and business practices.

  • Provide truthful information
  • Avoid misleading claims
  • Act transparently
02

Respect and Dignity

Every client must be treated with courtesy, fairness and respect, regardless of background, identity or circumstance.

  • Respect individual differences
  • Protect client dignity
  • Communicate without discrimination
03

Client Welfare

The safety, wellbeing and legitimate interests of the client must remain central to professional care.

  • Prioritise client wellbeing
  • Avoid unnecessary treatment
  • Refer when appropriate
04

Informed Consent

Clients must receive understandable information and retain the right to accept, refuse or stop treatment at any time.

  • Explain treatment clearly
  • Confirm ongoing consent
  • Respect client choices
05

Confidentiality

Personal, clinical and identifying information must be protected and handled only for legitimate professional purposes.

  • Safeguard client information
  • Maintain secure records
  • Share information lawfully
06

Professional Boundaries

Appropriate physical, emotional and financial boundaries must be maintained in every professional relationship.

  • Avoid exploitation
  • Use appropriate draping
  • Manage conflicts of interest
07

Competence

Members must work within their training, experience and lawful scope while maintaining current professional knowledge.

  • Practise within competence
  • Maintain current skills
  • Seek guidance when required
08

Accountability

Members are responsible for their conduct and must participate honestly in complaints, review and professional improvement processes.

  • Accept responsibility
  • Cooperate with reviews
  • Correct unsafe practice

Ethical principles must be applied in everyday professional practice

Members are expected to use these principles alongside AMSA Professional Standards, relevant Australian law and any other obligations applying to their work.

View Complaints Process

The AMSA Member Commitment

Membership of the Australian Massage Standards Association represents a commitment to professionalism, ethical conduct, continuous learning and the highest standards of client care. Every member contributes to strengthening public confidence in the massage profession.

"I commit to practising with honesty, integrity and respect. I will place the health, safety and wellbeing of my clients first, maintain appropriate professional boundaries, protect confidentiality, continue developing my knowledge and skills, and uphold the Professional Standards and Code of Ethics of the Australian Massage Standards Association."
Australian Massage Standards Association
Become an AMSA Member