Background
This month, the Health Care Complaints Commission (HCCC) released a Statement of Decision concerning a massage therapist, a 72-year-old massage therapist from Norwest Massage Solutions. This followed a detailed investigation into a serious allegation involving a vulnerable teenage client. The massage therapist was convicted of sexual touching without consent, resulting in a 12-month Intensive Corrections Order and a Prohibition Order permanently banning him from providing any health services in Australia.
At The Law Office of Conrad Curry, we are committed to helping victims of unethical medical and allied health care pursue justice and compensation. If you or your loved one has been affected by this type of criminal behaviour and misconduct, you should seek legal advice and learn more about your rights, including financial compensation.
Who is this Massage Therapist?
He was a former owner of Norwest Massage Solutions in Baulkham Hills, NSW. He held a Diploma of Remedial Massage and was a member of the Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS).
While the massage therapist operated under a business name, he was not a registered health practitioner, meaning he wasn’t subject to the same regulatory oversight as registered professionals.
Nevertheless, as a massage therapist, he was still legally obligated to uphold a Code of Conduct under the Public Health Regulation 2022.
What Were the Complaints Against the Massage Therapist?
The complaint concerned a 17-year-old patient—referred to as ‘Client A’—who was an inpatient at a clinic in NSW, receiving treatment for mental health conditions. According to police and medical records:
- Client A’s mother specifically requested a female therapist.
- The massage therapist approached the patient after her mother left and offered to perform the massage.
- Despite Client A requesting treatment only to her back and neck, the massage therapist proceeded to massage her buttocks and then cupped her breasts under a towel, touching her nipples and areola multiple times.
Client A, frozen in fear, later disclosed the incident to nursing staff at her clinic and to police. The massage therapist denied the allegations but was found guilty and convicted of sexual touching without consent following Local Court proceedings in October 2024.
What Did the Authorities Do to Protect the Public from the Massage Therapist?
Following his conviction, the HCCC issued a Prohibition Order, permanently barring the massage therapist from delivering any form of health service, paid or voluntary. The Commission determined that the massage therapist posed an ongoing risk to public safety, especially to vulnerable patients.
Additionally, his criminal appeal to the NSW District Court was dismissed, with the court upholding both the conviction and the sentence. This decisive legal action confirms that criminal behaviour and misconduct in allied health will not be tolerated in New South Wales.
What Can Patients Impacted by the Massage Therapist Do?
If you were treated by an allied health professional (whether registered or unregistered) and feel that you experienced inappropriate, unethical, or harmful behaviour, you may have legal recourse to compensation.
These claims are about more than compensation—they are about accountability, justice, and ensuring that no one else suffers in the same way.
In these cases, compensation can cover:
- Psychological trauma and therapy costs
- Medical expenses
- Loss of income
- Pain and suffering
- Aggravated and exemplary damages at common law (in the case of trespass to the person/assault/battery).
At The Law Office of Conrad Curry, our medical negligence team specialises in supporting survivors of healthcare abuse and misconduct, including inappropriate touching or boundary violations in therapeutic settings.
What Are the Steps in Making a Claim Against a Massage Therapist?
Making a claim for trespass or negligence involves several steps:
- Initial Consultation
Speak with a legal expert in a confidential, supportive environment. We’ll listen to your story and assess whether your case has reasonable prospects of success. - Gathering Evidence
This may include police reports, medical records, witness statements, and mental health treatment documentation. - Expert Review
Our team works with qualified medical experts in order to prove your claim and determine how the relevant treatment fell short of acceptable standards. Medical experts also provide evidence on the cause, nature and extent of personal injury, loss and damage. - Lodging the Claim
We prepare and file the formal legal documents required to initiate proceedings. - Negotiation or Litigation
We aim to resolve claims through skilful negotiation where possible—but every matter is diligently prepared ready to proceed to final hearing, if necessary. - Settlement or Judgment
Compensation is awarded based on your unique circumstances and calculated by reference to evidence as to the nature and extent of your injuries and disabilities.
Related: Misconduct by Medical Professionals
Are There Time Limits in Making a Claim Against a Massage Therapist?
Yes—strict time limits apply for medical and allied health trespass and negligence claims in NSW.
- Generally, you must commence legal proceedings within three years of discovering the injury or trespass.
- In cases involving trauma or delayed reporting (such as sexual abuse), courts may allow extensions—particularly where mental health conditions affected the ability to act sooner. Likewise, there is no limitation period on historical childhood abuse (sexual or serious physical abuse).
We strongly encourage anyone in Client A’s position to seek legal advice as soon as possible to preserve your rights.
If you or a loved one has been affected by misconduct, or suffered similar boundary violations, you are not alone. Our team is ready to support you with compassion, clarity, and expert legal guidance.
Call us today on (02) 4050 0330 or book an obligation-free consultation with our experienced team online.
DISCLAIMER
This article reflects the current law at the time of publication. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The actual decisions in each case are summarised for general understanding. For specific legal guidance in relation to your situation, please consult with a qualified legal professional.