Psychologists in Australia Have New Professional Standards — What That Means for You

The Psychology Board of Australia (AHPRA) has updated the professional standards for psychologists. These changes officially started on 1 December 2025.

These standards describe what good, safe, ethical psychological care looks like. They guide how psychologists are trained, supervised, and supported and help make sure clients receive high-quality services. At the 11th hour clinic, we see these changes as positive, timely, and aligned with values we already hold.

Why Were the Standards Updated?

The standards were last updated over a decade ago. Since then, the world and our understanding of mental health has changed a lot.

The new standards reflect modern practice, including:

• A more diverse Australian community
• Increased use of telehealth and digital tools
• Better understanding of trauma, identity, and lived experience
• Greater awareness of practitioner wellbeing

These updates help ensure psychology remains safe, inclusive, and effective.

What Are the Main Changes?

1. Better Support for Diversity

Psychologists are now expected to work in ways that are sensitive, respectful, and welcoming to people from all backgrounds and identities.

That includes people who are:

• Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
• Culturally and linguistically diverse
• Neurodivergent
• LGBTQIA+
• Living with disability
• Refugee or migrant
• Or otherwise marginalised

The goal: equity and dignity in mental healthcare.

2. Culturally Safe Care for First Nations Peoples

Psychologists must understand the historical, cultural, and social context that shapes the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Care must be safe, respectful, trauma-aware, and collaborative.

3. Being Skilled in Digital and Online Practice

Telehealth has become a regular part of mental healthcare.

Psychologists are now expected to be competent in:

• Online sessions
• Digital communication
• Secure record keeping
• Technology that supports care

This is about access, privacy, and quality.

4. Focus on Psychologist Wellbeing

Practitioners are now encouraged to engage in:

• Reflective practice
• Ongoing learning
• Self-care

Healthy practitioners support better client outcomes.

Does This Change the Services You Receive?

No. The new standards do not restrict psychologists or reduce the services available to you.

Instead, they help ensure psychologists:

• Stay up-to-date
• Are well-trained
• Practice safely and respectfully
• Work in ways that meet contemporary community needs

These standards are designed to strengthen the profession, not to complicate care.

Why This Should Matter to You

Because psychological care is a human relationship, and it should feel:

• Safe
• Respectful
• Personal
• Culturally aware
• Competent
• And trustworthy

The new standards aim to make that the norm, not the exception.

Final Word

Psychology in Australia is changing for the better.

The updated standards support a more modern, humane, and inclusive mental health system.

At the 11th hour clinic, we welcome these changes, and we remain committed to delivering services that are:

• Evidence-based
• Ethical
• Client-centred
• Relational
• And socially conscious

If you have questions about the updates or how they relate to your care, we’re happy to talk.