Are Recreational Therapists Allied Health Professionals in Australia? (2026 Update)
Recreational therapists are now recognised as allied health professionals in Australia under the Aged Care Rules 2025—but only if they are certified members of the Australian Recreational Therapy Association (ARTA) and hold a Bachelor-level qualification (AQF Level 7 or higher). This update clarifies a key distinction for aged care providers: while lifestyle and diversional therapy roles remain essential, they are not classified as allied health unless they meet ARTA certification standards. Understanding this difference is critical for compliance, staffing, and delivering evidence-based, person-centred care.
