April 02, 2020

As we continue to face the biggest public health challenge of our lives, responding to the COVID-19 pandemic will test our health system and each of us like nothing before it.

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While many are caring for sick and frightened patients and clients, some will face their own illness and need to care for families and loved ones. Some will be called on to work in unfamiliar situations where our knowledge and experience are needed most.

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Professional judgement will be critical to guide us when resources are limited and demand is intense.

The Board and Ahpra understand that the current national emergency presents extreme challenges and we sincerely thank you for your commitment and the care you provide. We know our regulatory approach must be modified to accommodate these exceptional circumstances.

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The Board has already started to make a series of pragmatic decisions by temporarily modifying some of our regulatory requirements while maintaining client safety. These changes are set out below. We have also published responses to questions we’ve been asked, some of which may apply to you.

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Our profession has well-established behaviours and values which provide a framework for ethical decision-making in a wide range of situations. You should continue to apply such guidance, recognising these are unique and challenging circumstances.

March 02, 2020

In Australia the psychology profession is regulated by the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law Act ('the National Law') as in force in each state and territory of Australia. 

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The Psychology Board of Australia (the Board) is the National Board for the psychology profession that is established under the National Law. Board members are appointed by Ministerial Council (comprising Ministers of the governments of each state and territory and the Commonwealth with the portfolio responsible for health)

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Functions of the Board

The functions of the Board include: 

• registering psychologists and provisional psychologists

• developing standards, codes and guidelines for the psychology profession

• handling notifications, complaints, investigations and disciplinary hearings 

• assessing overseas trained practitioners who wish to practise in Australia

• approving accreditation standards and accredited courses of study.