Episode 080: Your Questions Answered
We’ve received some fantastic questions from listeners lately, and in this blog, we’re tackling a few of the big ones. Whether you’re curious about taxation, considering overseas training, or wondering about the value of association membership, we’re here to help. Let’s dive in!
Are You Covering Tax and Super in Future Episodes?
Yes, we are! Managing finances is one of the trickiest parts of running a massage therapy business, and we understand how overwhelming it can feel. That’s why we’re planning a series covering taxation, bookkeeping, superannuation, payroll, and more.
Of course, Jackie and I aren’t accountants, so we’ll be bringing in experts to share accurate, up-to-date advice. Taxation laws change frequently, and it’s essential to get information you can trust. Anna Mitchell, an accountant who understands the massage industry, will join us to kick things off. Her unique experience as a former massage therapist ensures she speaks our language and gets the challenges we face.
For those who feel “bad with money,” we’ll provide resources to help you gain confidence and take control of your finances. Sometimes, it’s best to leave the tricky stuff to the experts—your time is valuable, after all.
Is Overseas Training Worth It?
This is a dream for many massage therapists. The idea of traveling to work with world-class trainers is enticing, but it’s a big decision that requires careful planning.
Historically, many therapists had to travel internationally for advanced skills. One of my own teachers, Patricia Farnsworth, frequently went to the US to train with John Barnes, a pioneer in myofascial release. Today, while online modules make learning more accessible, there’s still nothing quite like hands-on training.
David is saving for future courses with leaders like Til Luchau, John Barnes, Walt Fritz, and Erik Dalton. But before committing to the expense and time, I’d recommend starting with online modules to ensure their teaching style resonates with you.
Another tip: check if the training aligns with your association’s Continuing Professional Education (CPE) guidelines. And if you do attend, consider writing a reflection or sharing your new skills with colleagues—it’s a great way to contribute to the industry while making the most of your investment.
Will We Ever Have One Governing Body for Massage Therapy?
This is a hot topic. While many therapists hope for a unified voice, the reality is complicated.
Currently, there are several associations representing massage therapists in Australia, including Massage & Myotherapy Australia (MMA), Association of Massage Therapists (AMT), and Australian Natural Therapists Association (ANTA). Each has its own strengths, but this fragmentation can be confusing, both for therapists and policymakers.
The challenges are similar to what’s been seen in other industries. For example, in South Australian soccer, the government declared one organization as the peak body, leaving others feeling excluded and causing division. A similar move in massage therapy could create unrest.
Physiotherapists, on the other hand, are represented by a single association, which has strengthened their voice, particularly in areas like research and advocacy. For massage therapy to move forward, we need to unite under a shared vision. Until then, we remain a diverse group with varying priorities.
Is Association Membership Worth It for Part-Time Therapists?
In short, yes! Membership offers benefits beyond health fund provider status, which many therapists overlook.
Associations provide resources like templates, legal and ethical guidance, discounted insurance, and access to continuing education. They also advocate for the profession, whether it’s engaging with government or promoting massage therapy to the public.
If you’re working part-time or don’t need health fund recognition, consider an associate membership. It’s a cost-effective way to access resources and support without the full requirements of a professional membership.
Being part of an association also adds credibility to your practice. Clients value therapists who demonstrate professionalism, and membership is an easy way to signal that commitment.
What About Massage Subscriptions?
Massage subscriptions are common overseas and can work in Australia under the right circumstances. I ran a subscription model in my business, offering clients a slightly discounted rate in exchange for monthly payments. It provided financial stability and encouraged regular bookings.
That said, these models work best for lifestyle-focused therapy rather than pain management. They also require flexibility—clients should be able to pause or cancel without penalty.
Keep in mind that health funds may have concerns about over-treatment, so if you’re offering subscriptions, ensure they’re ethical and client-centred.
What’s Happening with the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has been life-changing for many Australians with disabilities, but recent changes have caused significant upheaval.
Massage and myotherapy have never been explicitly included in NDIS guidelines. However, self-managed participants and plan managers often approved these therapies as reasonable and necessary supports. Unfortunately, this flexibility has led to inconsistent practices and, in some cases, exploitation of the system.
Recent reforms have tightened eligibility, excluding massage therapy from NDIS funding. This decision highlights the lack of unified advocacy within our industry. Allied health professions with strong research and representation, like physiotherapy, are often better positioned to secure recognition in such schemes.
As massage therapists, we need to invest in research and work collaboratively to elevate our profession’s credibility. This will require effort, but it’s essential for long-term growth.
Final Thoughts
This episode touched on some of the most pressing questions facing massage therapists today. Whether it’s navigating business challenges, considering overseas training, or advocating for the future of the profession, these conversations are vital for our growth as therapists and as an industry.
If you have questions or topics you’d like us to explore, let us know. We’re here to support you and help the massage therapy community thrive.
Thank you for reading! If you found this helpful, share it with your colleagues or leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts. For more insights, tune in to the Folding Towels Podcast or connect with us on social media.