Permanent Ban for Massage Therapist After Sexual Assault Conviction
This information sheet concerns the recent Permanent Prohibition Order issued against massage therapist, Mr Anh Doan, following shocking criminal acts which resulted in his conviction on two counts of ‘Sexually touch another person without consent’.
In its public decision, the HCCC found Mr Doan’s criminal conduct to pose a serious risk to the health and safety of the public.
As a result, a Permanent Prohibition Order has been imposed by the HCCC, preventing him from providing any health services to any member of the public in either a paid or voluntary capacity.
Background
Mr Anh Doan worked as a massage therapist for approximately 10 years at Wangs Massage and Medicine, located in Westfield Liverpool, Sydney. The HCCC’s investigation followed a complaint raised by NSW Police regarding criminal charges laid against Mr Doan.
Mr Doan was charged with, and later convicted of, two counts of sexually touching another person without consent. These charges arose from an incident on 27 February 2023, in which a 26-year-old female client (Client A) reported that Mr Doan sexually touched her during what was supposed to be a therapeutic massage session.
On 16 October 2024, Mr Doan was sentenced to nine months imprisonment, to be served by way of intensive correction in the community. His subsequent appeal against the sentence was dismissed by the NSW District Court on 27 November 2024.
Findings of the HCCC
The HCCC found that Mr Doan’s actions during the massage session were not carried out for any therapeutic purpose, but instead for his own sexual gratification. His behaviour breached Clause 13(1) of the Code of Conduct for non-registered health practitioners, which strictly prohibits health practitioners from engaging in any sexual or close personal relationships with clients.
Further, the HCCC found that Mr Doan breached Clause 1(1) of the Code of Conduct, which requires practitioners to provide services in a safe and ethical way.
In light of these findings, the HCCC concluded that Mr Doan’s actions amounted to a serious breach of professional and ethical standards. His conduct reflected a fundamental lack of understanding of sexual boundaries within the context of health care and placed members of the public at risk.
Outcome
The HCCC has permanently banned Mr Doan from providing any form of health service in New South Wales.
This includes any employment or voluntary role involving health services, as defined by Section 4 of the Health Care Complaints Act 1993. This order came into effect on 26 June 2025. Mr Doan had previously been subject to Interim Prohibition Orders (since 17 May 2022).
Have You Been Affected by a Similar Incident?
Patients who have been exposed to inappropriate or unlawful conduct during health or massage services may be entitled to pursue compensation by way of a civil claim for damages, including claims for trespass, assault or battery.
If you or someone you know has been affected, our team of experienced lawyers can provide confidential advice and support to guide you through your legal options. Time limits apply to these types of claims, so we recommend seeking legal advice as early as possible.
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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.