11/02/2026
AMT Media Release
AMT calls for Remedial Massage Therapists to be recognised as NDIS providers
The Association of Massage Therapists (AMT) is urging the Federal Government to include qualified remedial massage therapists and myotherapists in reforms to the definition of NDIS providers, as part of the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing's current consultation closing 28 February 2026.
"NDIS participants are currently forced to access massage through registered allied health practitioners, when qualified remedial massage therapists could provide the same service more accessibly and affordably," said Rebecca Barnett, Chief Executive Officer of AMT. " It’s galling that the very practitioners most qualified to provide remedial massage are unable to provide the service to NDIS participants. This policy doesn't make sense and limits participant choice and access to care."
Perth NDIS participant John Lynes said he was "gutted" to discover that his regular remedial massage is not covered within the scheme. "Remedial massage is the only effective therapy that keeps me mobile. It's saving me from amputation of my foot," he said. "I can't find an allied health practitioner who can provide the treatment that works for me."
Youjung Suh, a remedial massage therapist who has worked with disabled clients, shared the impact of this restriction. “Many of my clients rely on remedial massage to manage pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life. It is frustrating that they can’t use their NDIS funding to access my services. This reform is an opportunity to give people with disabilities the freedom to choose the best qualified provider for their needs.”
AMT is making a comprehensive submission and has created resources to help NDIS participants share their stories with the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.
https://www.amt.org.au/media-centre/NDIS-2026.html
