About Spiritual Health Association
Spiritual Health Association (SHA) was founded in Melbourne in the 1970s, emerging from decades of advocacy by Christian churches dating back to the 1950s. It was established with a visionary goal: to see chaplaincy recognised as an integral part of hospital life, with salaried spiritual care professionals embedded in health services.
Over 50 years, SHA evolved into Australia’s peak body for spiritual care in healthcare, shaping national standards, leading research, and fostering inclusive, trauma-informed approaches to care that acknowledged the importance of both religious and non-religious expressions of spirituality. With strong partnerships across faith communities, health services, universities, and government bodies, SHA championed the deep human need for meaning, connection, and belonging.
The organisation ceased operations in March 2025 due to loss of funding, entrusting its resources and legacy to Meaningful Ageing Australia. The work continues through those who believe that spiritual care is vital to person-centred, holistic healthcare – supporting not just bodies, but the breath, spirit, and story of every person.
Vision
Spiritually inclusive
healthcare for all.
Mission
Leading the integration of
safe and high-quality spiritual
care in healthcare.
Values
Respect
Seeing and honouring the humanity and dignity of every person.
Inclusiveness
Embracing the beliefs, worldviews and contributions of all people.
Courage
Stepping beyond the known and comfortable and welcoming new ideas and innovations.
Compassion
Acting with kindness and care towards everyone we meet.
Excellence
Being the best we can be through continuous improvement and accountability.
Integrity
Building trust through honesty, embodying our values and continuous evaluation of all we do.
Strategic Documents
