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Synopsis
In December 2025, the Psychology Board of Australia is moving away from the APS Code of Ethics and will, for the first time, have its own Code of Conduct. It is also updating its professional competencies at the same time.
Much of the focus of the profession to date has been on the changes to the competencies, but the changes to the Code of Conduct are important to consider as well. While many obligations remain similar, there are a few key changes that psychologists need to be aware of to ensure that they are ready for the new Code on 1 December 2025.
Learning outcomes
• Be able to identify the key documents that set out your professional obligations as a psychologist.
• Be aware of the key changes to your professional obligations under the new Code.
• Be able to interpret the new Code and apply it to your practice.
• Understand how the new Code is used by the regulators to maintain and enforce professional standards.
Workshop agenda
| Presentation time | Presentation title |
| 2 mins | Introduction to speaker |
| 10 mins | Introduction to topic – new Code, who are the regulators, and why it is important |
| 23 mins | Overarching obligations, and the Guiding Principles – what they are, and how they will work in practice |
| 15 mins | Cultural safety and respect for others |
| 25 mins | Confidentiality, consent and expiry of consent |
| 30 mins | Afternoon tea |
| 15 mins | Conduct outside of the profession and social media use |
| 15 mins | Continuity of service and ending care |
| 20 mins | Professional boundaries and multiple relationships |
| 20 mins | The implicit made explicit – clarity around existing obligations |
| 15 mins | Other changes in the Code |
| 35 mins | Review and reflection on changes in Code, wrapping up |