Episode 083: Addressing Safety and Trust in the Massage Industry

On January 25, 2025, the ABC published a sobering article titled Is This Self-Regulated Industry a Breeding Ground for Predators? The article brought attention to an incident involving a massage therapist in South Australia who harmed at least nine women over a three-year period. It delves into the story of two survivors, the role of the police, responses from massage associations, and the Health and Community Services Complaints Commission (HCSCC). Ultimately, the therapist in question was prosecuted and sentenced to jail.

The massage industry was shaken, and conversations about safety and trust in this profession reignited. This is a story that must be told—and more importantly, it highlights actions the industry can take to protect clients and therapists alike.

A Breach of Trust in a Vulnerable Setting

Massage therapists work in a unique and privileged position. Clients trust us with their bodies in a vulnerable setting, often undressing and lying under a towel or sheet while expecting professional care. When a therapist abuses this trust, it leaves lasting emotional and psychological scars.

The betrayal of that trust impacts not only the survivors but also the industry as a whole. For male massage therapists, it can become harder to build trust with clients or find employment. Stories of abuse reinforce fear and suspicion, making clients—and even clinic owners—more cautious.

As therapists, we must recognise the gravity of our responsibility to act ethically, prioritising the well-being and safety of our clients at all times.

The Role of Associations and Legal Channels

In Australia, massage is a self-regulated industry. While massage associations play an essential role in maintaining standards, their scope is limited when it comes to criminal activity. When a crime occurs, survivors must go directly to the police.

However, there are additional steps both therapists and clients can take:

• Massage Therapists: You can report unethical behaviour to your association. The ethics committee may investigate and provide recommendations, but legal action requires the involvement of the police or the HCSCC.
• Clients: If something feels wrong or inappropriate during a massage, speak up. Seek advice from the HCSCC and consider filing a formal complaint.

It’s also crucial for all practitioners in South Australia to display the HCSCC’s complaints information prominently in their clinic. This ensures clients know what to do if they experience inappropriate behaviour.

Educating and Empowering Clients

We can’t rely solely on regulations to safeguard our industry. We must also educate our clients. When clients know what professional boundaries should look like, they are better equipped to identify when something feels off. For example:

• Always ask questions if a therapist begins working in a sensitive area without prior explanation.
• Understand that consent must be given, not assumed.
• If something makes you feel uncomfortable, it’s okay to speak up—or leave.

By empowering clients with knowledge, we strengthen their ability to protect themselves.

Raising Industry Standards

The recent conversations within the massage community show a growing recognition of the need for change. Topics like risk management, therapist safety, public perception, and client education are more relevant than ever. Raising industry standards and demanding accountability from our peers is how we evolve into a stronger, safer profession.

Here are a few simple but impactful steps:

• Ensure informed consent is obtained before working in sensitive areas.
• Display clear information on how clients can make a complaint.
• Be vigilant and report unethical behaviour to associations and appropriate authorities.
• Stay educated on professional boundaries and maintain ongoing training on ethical practice.

Therapists: Be the Standard of Excellence

The most effective way to combat unethical behaviour in the industry is to be the example of what an outstanding therapist should be. Treat every client with respect, care, and integrity. Understand that you hold a position of power and that your actions—good or bad—have a lasting impact.

If you ever feel a client is uncomfortable, stop and check in with them. It’s far better to err on the side of caution than to misinterpret silence as consent.

Let’s Talk About It

It’s not an easy conversation, but it’s an essential one. The only way we can create a safe and trusted environment in the massage industry is to acknowledge the problems, talk about them openly, and take action. The goal is a healthier, safer future for all therapists and clients.