The National Aikido Association of Australia, Aiki Kai Australia, was formed in 1965 under the direct authorisation of the Aikido founder, Morihei Ueshiba, also known as O-Sensei. Its originator, Seiichi Sugano Shihan (8th Dan) was a direct student of O-Sensei. He was the head of Aiki Kai in Australia, and was the Australian representative to the affiliated parent organisation, World Aikido Headquarters (Hombu), based in Japan. After his passing in 2010, his responsibilities continue to be carried out by the Sugano Shihan Foundation.