06/06/2026
Before you employ, refer or fund speech-language therapy, ask whether the SLT is NZSTA-registered. Speech-language therapy is not regulated under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act in Aotearoa New Zealand. Instead, the profession is self-regulated through the New Zealand Speech-language Therapists’ Association.
NZSTA registration provides an important layer of public protection. Registered speech-language therapists must meet qualification and professional standards, complete ongoing professional development, make annual declarations about their practice, and follow NZSTA’s Code of Ethics and Conduct.
Employing a registered speech-language therapist helps ensure the person you engage is qualified, current, accountable and committed to safe, ethical and culturally responsive practice.