Aikikai Australia was founded in 1965 by Seiichi Sugano (8th dan) (pictured right), who was a former uchideshi (live-in student) of Morihei Ueshiba. In 1965 Sugano moved to Sydney and began instructing in Aikido. He stayed for fifteen years before leaving to teach in a number of other countries including the USA, Belgium, Luxembourg and France. Sugano Shihan (master) instructed twice a year at the winter and summer schools and continued as the national representative in Australia until his death in 2010.

Aikikai Australia is a member of the International Aikido Federation, which is a non-profit organisation affiliated with the Aikikai Foundation in Tokyo, Japan. Go to the Aikikai Australia website for more information.

Aikikai Australia is represented locally by Aikikai South Australia. While Aikikai South Australia exists to promote the study of Aikido in our state, all grades from black belt up are issued by Aikikai Australia. These are entered in the hombu (headquarters) grading register and recognised worldwide.

David Scott Sensei (6th dan) is the main instructor in, and area representative for, South Australia. Go to the Instructors page for more details. All instructors have been graded by Sugano Shihan and are entered in the international register.

We have two Aikido dojos in Adelaide. Our northern dojo is located in Campbelltown, and our southern dojo is located at Seaview High School. Classes are held most nights on weekdays and also in the morning on weekends. Beginners and observers are welcome to come and see any of the classes in action. Click here for information about class times and locations.

Morihei Ueshiba (pictured right) spent the latter half of his life developing this martial art form as a means of refining and uplifting the human spirit. Drawing on the knowledge and skills he acquired during his training in traditional jujitsu and kenjutsu, Ueshiba succeeded in creating what he then named, Aikido. The three Japanese characters that make up the word ai-ki-do can be roughly translated as, ‘The Way of Harmony'.

Aikido is true budo, a path in which the keen edge of martial training is utilised to pursue spiritual growth. Despite its popularity, Aikido remains true to the goals of budo. Its methods are based on Ueshiba's deep faith in 'austere training for the sake of improving the human spirit'. In accordance with the founder's ideals, the art of Aikido has been kept separate from the competitive sporting arena.

Aikido is a martial art with principles and techniques that are highly effective when applied in confrontational situations. However, the lesson structure is such that it is suitable for any age, gender, or fitness level to learn and practise.