OverviewAbout this course

    The Diploma of Remedial Massage gives you the skills you need to become a qualified remedial massage therapist. You'll assess and treat clients with musculoskeletal pain and injuries and those who have difficulty moving freely. Understand the difference between remedial and relaxation massage techniques and work with clients with different needs such as disability, pregnancy and those in palliative care.

    You'll learn a range of advanced massage techniques in a purpose built massage therapy clinic. Our TAFE NSW onsite clinics are equipped to industry standard to prepare you for a career in the health and wellness industry.

    Clinic Work Requirements:

    To achieve this qualification, all students must have completed at least 200 hours of clinic work as detailed in the Assessment Requirements of units of competency. This must include the following and is completed through the onsite clinics.40 hours of relaxation massage consultation.

    • 40 hours of relaxation massage consultations
    • 100 hours of massage remedial massage consultations of one hour duration
    • 60 hours of clinic work (for example, cleaning and reception duties)

    Students will be required to complete a logbook for a record of their clinic work so they can practise their skills and embed the knowledge they have learned during the course.

    OutcomesWhat you'll gain

    Learn new skills

    Through a mix of theory and practical coursework, learn to:

    • Communicate with a culturally diverse group of people
    • Assess clients' suitability for either remedial or relaxation massage therapies
    • Create appropriate massage treatment plans for different client needs
    • Prepare and provide massage treatments, using relaxation techniques and sequences
    • Assess clients with limited musculoskeletal movements
    • Undertake industry research and apply principles of pain neuroscience to assessments and treatments

    Gain practical experience

    Build your experience and get practical skills in:

    • Providing remedial massage treatments
    • Assessing and treating clients with specific needs, such as disability and pregnancy
    • Remedial massage musculoskeletal assessments
    • Managing legal and ethical compliance
    • Running a small business

    Develop your professional confidence

    Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in this industry:

    • Time management
    • Effective communication skills
    • Analytical skills
    • Patience
    • Empathy
    • A desire to help people
    • A hardworking attitude
    • A good work ethic

    Career pathways

    This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:

    • Remedial Massage Therapist
    • Remedial Massage Clinic Business Owner

    SuitabilityInternational entry requirements

    At TAFE NSW each course has entry requirements. These help us to make sure that your course choice is right for you and help determine your suitability for a course. We want you to be confident in your decision and successful in your studies.

    Fees and locationsStarting dates, course fees and locations

    As an international student, you can choose from a range of different courses, offered at various locations. Experience vibrant spaces, libraries, cafes and gyms, as well as places to make friends and socialise with other students.

    Additional costs

    Additional costs for uniforms, equipment, textbooks and materials (if applicable) range from $300 - $1,000 AUD per course.

    Structure and unitsWhat you will study

    At the start of your course, you will receive your timetable. You will need to study all core units and a range of additional units.


    Total number of units = 22 19 core units 3 elective units, consisting of: at least 1 unit from the Business Management group below up to 2 units from the electives listed below, any endorsed Training Package or accredited course – these units must be relevant to the work outcome. All electives chosen must contribute to a valid, industry-supported vocational outcome.

    Core units are the required units that you must complete.

    • Establish and manage client relationshipsCHCCOM006

    • Work with diverse peopleCHCDIV001

    • Manage legal and ethical complianceCHCLEG003

    • Reflect on and improve own professional practiceCHCPRP003

    • Engage with health professionals and the health systemCHCPRP005

    • Confirm physical health statusHLTAAP002

    • Analyse and respond to client health informationHLTAAP003

    • Provide first aidHLTAID011

    • Manage the prevention and control of infectionHLTINF004

    • Work within a framework of traditional oriental medicineHLTSHU001

    PathwaysContinue your studies

    At TAFE NSW, you can develop your skills or build your expertise by studying a single course. You can also continue your studies with one of the following pathway options:


    Vocational study pathway

    Enrol in a range of TAFE NSW courses designed to help you kick-start your career and education goals. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW degree pathway

    From certificates to diplomas, to a TAFE NSW degree, continue your studies with us to help build your success. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW - university partnership pathways

    TAFE NSW has partnerships with a number of Australian universities. These universities offer guaranteed entry and credit transfer to eligible students. How much credit you are eligible for varies depending on the course and university you choose. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    Other university pathways

    You may gain entry to another university using your TAFE NSW qualifications. Acceptance and the amount of credit transfer may vary depending on the university and course studies. Check your credit eligibility.


    Keep learning with TAFE NSW

    Whatever your career ambitions, we will help you get there with a range of courses to develop your skills, build your knowledge and prepare you for work.

    TAFE NSW is here to create exceptional learner experiences and to support you on your study journey to make sure you achieve your goals.

    Explore your study options across a range of disciplines and talk to your TAFE NSW Education Agent or contact us.

    ServicesCampus facilities and support services

    TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the resources, counselling and facilities to support you while you are studying.

    You’ll also have access to a purpose built massage therapy clinic equipped to industry standard.

    We offer a range of support services including: 

    • TAFE NSW Disability Support Service 
    • TAFE NSW Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) support  
    • TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling, and Pathways Service  
    • Smarthinking – online access to a tutor 
    • LinkedIn Learning – an online resource that offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills

    We're here to help

    If you have more questions about your course choice or study plans contact us today.

    Contact TAFE NSW International