The MPAA - Evolving with the profession

In 1989 at the sixth Biennial Conference, MTAA members voted to change the name of the association to the Manipulative Physiotherapists’ Association of Australia (MPAA), so that members would then be recognised as physiotherapists as well as manipulative therapists. This change also heralded a new stage in the Association’s evolution within the physiotherapy profession. Members adopted the title ‘Manipulative Physiotherapist’. In the 1960s and 1970s, the main part of MTAA activity was driven by state chapters and had a local perspective and flavour. With the development of various national committees and programs in the 80s, it became apparent that the association was evolving national focus as it matured. Thus, following the name change, in 1991 the MPAA voted for a new structure with a National Committee of management overseeing and communicating with the state chapters.

The keen eye on Academic and Clinical Standards was maintained in the new structure, with a renewed emphasis towards consistency in standards throughout Australia. In 1997 a formal Charter of Educational Standards was adopted, which outlined the requirements for academic programs and educational institutions with regard to eligibility criteria for members. From this point on only graduates from programs endorsed by the ASC as fulfilling the standards of the Charter were eligible for MPAA membership.