Contact

Phone: (03) 9940 3900
Email: info@audiology.asn.au
Website: www.audiology.asn.au
Address: 15-19 Gracie Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051

About

Audiology Australia is a not-for-profit, professional member association which represents more than 3,000 audiologist members. Audiology Australia provides professional support to members, information for other health professionals and audiology education for the public.

Vision

We believe that every human being has the right to communicate and interact with the world in ways that are fulfilling and meaning to them.

Advocacy

Audiology Australia works to give value to its members as the peak professional body in audiology by providing education, engaging in advocacy, and setting ethical standards of practice, to ensure audiologists are able to deliver the highest standards of hearing health care and are valued by the community for their service.

Regulation / Accreditation

Audiology is a self-regulated profession. Audiology Australia provides accreditation to members who have undertaken an approved university qualification and meet ongoing continuing professional development standards and a code of ethics. Audiology Australia sets requirements to ensure audiologists are able to deliver the highest standards of hearing health care to the Australian public through its Audiology Australia Accredited Audiologist program.

Membership with Audiology Australia is a requirement to provide government-funded audiological services such as those funded via:

• Office of Hearing Services’ Hearing Services Program

• Medicare

• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

• State and Territory workers’ compensation schemes (such as Workcover)

• Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Additionally, private healthcare funds also require that the audiologist is a member of Audiology Australia for hearing service fees to be reimbursed.

Contact

Address: PO Box 518, Glenelg, South Australia, 5045
Phone: (08) 7228 6855
Email: admin@aarpn.com
Website: www.aarpn.com

About

The Australasian Association and Register of Practicing Nutritionists (AARPN) is the peak body allied health association for professional nutritionists, these being degree qualified clinically trained nutritionists, which AARPN accredits through its Certified Practicing Nutritionist (CPN) program.

AARPN is Australia’s first independently mono-modality association exclusively representing and advocating for clinically trained tertiary-level qualified professional nutritionists (Practicing Nutritionists) who practice Clinical Nutrition.

Clinical Nutrition (which AARPN formally terms Nutrition Practice) is grounded in the scientific evidence based application of nutritional interventions and evolved from the merging of medicine and nutrition science in the 1950’s, hence its other name, “Nutritional Medicine”. It includes independent clinical assessment of the client and individualised dietary based modification, and additionally includes the complex prescribing of nutritional supplements to the diet, for the maintenance of health, and in support of the remediation of disease.

Regulation / Accreditation

Principally, AARPN terminologically refers to clinically trained Nutritionists (whose qualifications it has assessed and accepted as meeting AARPN’s training and competency standards) as ‘Certified Practicing Nutritionists’, while the common use term is ‘Clinical Nutritionist’, because the training and practice is in Clinical Nutrition. Through its Certified Practicing Nutritionist (CPN) program, AARPN sets the educational and professional standards for the Practicing Nutritionist profession.

CPN’s bring to the allied health dietary services table a unique underlying clinical examination and complex nutritional medicine prescribing skillset. They are trained to work with both health and disease. They are trained to take a detailed case history, conduct clinical examination, assess for drug-nutrient interaction, independently assess dietary needs, formulate individualised therapeutic goals, design, and implement individualised goal-oriented treatment plans, strategically monitor progress, adjust nutritional therapeutic interventions as needed, and to know when to refer-on to medical professionals.

AARPN currently assesses and accredits clinical degree qualification programs in Clinical Nutrition for CPN recognition free of charge as a service to the profession.

Contact

Address: 145 Macquarie Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Telephone: (02) 9669 6602
Email: secretariat@hgsa.org.au
Website: www.hgsa.org.au/asgc

About

The Australasian Society of Genetic Counsellors (ASGC) represents more than 280 members across Australia and New Zealand. The Australasian Society of Genetic Counsellors is a special interest group of the Human Genetics Society of Australasia.

Vision

To provide a strong voice and leadership in the development of policies and guidelines within the discipline of genetic counselling. To support the active involvement of genetic counsellors in research and education.

The Human Genetics Society of Australasia (HGSA) first formed in 1977 to provide a forum for the various disciplines collected under the title of Human Genetics. The Australasian Society of Genetic Counsellors was later established to represent those practitioners providing genetic counselling or who were members of the HGSA working in related areas. The HGSA is a full member of the International Federation of Human Genetics Societies and works closely with the Royal Australasian College of Physicians and Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia as well as other groups through the Pathology Associations Council.

Regulation / Accreditation

Genetic Counselling is a self-regulated profession. The Human Genetics Society of Australasia (HGSA) Board of Censors for Genetic Counselling assesses candidates for the HGSA Council for the certification of genetic counsellors and accreditation of postgraduate genetic counselling training programs. Those with certification can use the term Fellow of the Human Genetics Society of Australasia FHGSA (genetic counselling). There are mandated Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements to be a certified genetic counsellor.

Contact

Phone: (03) 9552 0000
Email: MemberServices@sonographers.org
Website: www.sonographers.org
Address: Level 2/93-95 Queen Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

About

The Australasian Sonographers Association (ASA) is the national peak body for the sonography profession in Australia. The ASA has over 7,900 members and a membership of more than 75% of Australasia’s sonographers. Sonographers are university trained allied health professionals with expertise in ultrasound.

Vision

A healthier world through sonographer expertise.

Advocacy

The ASA advocates on behalf of sonographers to governments and sector stakeholders to ensure patients have access to safe, high-quality medical diagnostic ultrasound. The ASA places a particular focus on improving professional standards and strengthening the sonographer workforce.

Additionally, the ASA supports the sonography profession by offering extensive professional development opportunities, creating evidence-based resources, and developing recommendations for best sonography practice. This work is further strengthened by the ASA’s commitment to investing in and sharing research that advances the body of knowledge within the sonography profession.

Regulation / Accreditation

In order to practice as Accredited Medical Sonographers, sonographers must complete a recognised AQF8 postgraduate qualification, complete clinical training of up to three days per week over two years and undertake ongoing professional development.

Sonographers must also be accredited by the Australian Sonographer Accreditation Registry in order to perform medical ultrasound examinations eligible for Medicare rebates to meet the Australian Government’s National Safety and Quality Medical Imaging Standards  and Medicare legislation.

Contact

Address: PO Box 921, Parkville VIC 3052
Email: admin@anzcp.org
Website: www.anzcp.org
Phone: +61 3 8678 1784

About

The Australian and New Zealand College of Perfusionists (ANZCP) is the peak body representing Certified Clinical Perfusionists in Australia and New Zealand. It is a not-for-profit, member association committed to supporting its members and improving health outcomes for people undergoing cardiac procedures, extracorporeal life support, ventricular assist devices and intra-aortic balloon counter-pulsation.

The ANZCP provides assurance to employers, hospitals, patients and health profession colleagues that they are receiving perfusion / extra-corporeal support services from a trained, certified and accredited perfusionist.

Vision

The Australian and New Zealand College of Perfusionists works to provide information for its members, other health professionals, hospitals and health services, government and the public. It serves as a regulatory body to uphold and promote standards for the work of Perfusionists, to facilitate the provision of high quality education, training and on-going professional development.

Advocacy

A key focus for the Australian and New Zealand College of Perfusionists is to help its members obtain official recognition (course accreditation and regulation) as qualified practising perfusionists.

As a result of the College’s growing advocacy initiatives, New Zealand and Australian Perfusionists have gained greater recognition for their contribution and professional endeavours.  ANZCP aims to strengthen relationships with all levels of government and with hospital, employer, industry stakeholders and the public.  ANZCP will continue to represent our membership on a wide range of issues including qualifications, professional standards and funding matters.

Regulation / Accreditation

Perfusion is a self-regulated profession. Perfusionists who hold a post-graduate Perfusion qualification and meet the requirements as set out by the Australasian Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion are eligible to become Certified Clinical Perfusionists. There are College mandated Continuing Professional Development requirements in order to practice in Australia and New Zealand.

Contact

Phone: 0488 770 044
Email: admin@aapi.org.au
Website: www.aapi.org.au
Address: PO Box 107 North Melbourne 3051

About

The Australian Association of Psychologists Inc (AAPi) is a values-driven peak body for psychologists that aims to promote Australia's rich diversity of psychological practice. AAPi is a vibrant, member-focussed organisation. We are working towards increased and improved access to all psychologists.

AAPi supports psychologists in delivering exceptional care through research-based psychology services that assist individuals, families, organisations, and communities achieve optimal wellbeing and enhanced quality of life.

Vision

Advancing psychology through unity, democracy and diversity.

Advocacy

AAPi has a clear mission to represent all psychologists in Australia. We are working hard to increase access to the vital mental health services psychologists provide and to increase the funding and support necessary to make this happen. We are working toward equity in the psychology profession and recognise the skills and expertise of all psychologists.

Regulation / Accreditation

The Psychology Board of Australia regulates psychology in Australia and protects the title of psychologist.

A psychologist is a mental health professional who has undertaken a minimum of 6 years of combined university study and applied workplace supervision. Psychologists must also undertake continuing professional development, abide by a Code of Ethics and demonstrate recency of practice.

Psychologists work in various settings, including schools, medical centres, hospitals, organisations and businesses, prisons, community centres and government agencies and apply their knowledge of how people behave, think and learn.

 All psychologists must demonstrate the following competencies:

• knowledge of the discipline

• ethical, legal and professional matters

• psychological assessment and measurement

• intervention strategies

• research and evaluation

• communication and interpersonal relationships

• working with people from diverse groups

• practice across the lifespan.

Contact

Phone: (03) 9320 1000
Email: membership@aasw.asn.au
Website: www.aasw.asn.au
Address: Level 7, 14-20 Blackwood St, North Melbourne VIC 3051

About

Social workers partner with people to address personal difficulties and structural barriers, focussing on wellbeing and human rights.  The AASW is the national professional body representing more than 17,000 social workers throughout Australia in a wide range of settings, locations, fields of practice and modes of delivery. 

The AASW promotes the professional interests and meets the professional needs of members practising across all fields of employment and in all locations.

Vision & Mission

Our vision is for wellbeing and social justice in Australia. 

Our mission is to champion the social work profession, drive professional growth and create a better future.  We do this by setting the standards for social work qualifications, professional practice, and ethical conduct, providing comprehensive ongoing learning, building a connected and collaborative professional community, and by advocating for social justice, inclusion and human rights. This demonstrates our interconnected commitment to both the profession and the broader goal of creating a fairer, more just society.

Advocacy

Advocacy is central to all social work practice, and therefore, it is also central to the AASW’s work.  In partnering with people to build their resilience, and address the challenges in their lives, social workers also advocate for their human rights.  The AASW advocates to decision makers for recognition of its members’ expertise and their contribution to improved outcomes for the people with whom they work.  That can include advocacy about pay parity, workforce composition and program structure.  The AASW simultaneously advocates for reforms to the polices and programs that create obstacles to health and wellbeing of vulnerable and marginalised people. 

Regulation / Accreditation

Social work is a self-regulating profession.  Registration is not required for social workers, although as of July 2025, registration is required to deliver some social work services in South Australia.  Membership of the AASW is voluntary, although eligibility for AASW membership is often required for employment in social work job positions.

Members who meet CPD requirements are eligible for formal accreditation as Accredited Social Workers, or as leaders in specialist fields of practice, such as Accredited Disability Social Worker, Accredited Older Persons Social Worker.  The Accredited Mental Health Social Worker credential, which is accredited by the AASW, is required to access some funding sources, including the Better Access initiative and the Chronic Disease Management programs.

Contact

Phone: (02) 8844 0400
Email: aca@chiropractors.org.au
Website: www.chiropractors.org.au
Address: Suite 102, Level 1, 18 Smith Street, Parramatta NSW 2150

About

The Australian Chiropractors Association (ACA) is Australia’s peak member-based association for chiropractors, chiropractic students, and the chiropractic profession.  With over 3,000 members across all states and territories in Australia, the ACA provides leadership, advocacy and a strong, unified voice for all chiropractors, supported by our core values of Ethics & Professionalism, Evidence-based Practice and Patient Centred Chiropractic.

Vision

The Australian Chiropractors Association’s vision is for more Australians to value and experience chiropractic care for their health and well-being. This vision is supported by our mission to lead the chiropractic profession and support members in the provision of excellence in person-centred chiropractic healthcare.

Advocacy

The ACA works to provide a clearly articulated voice for chiropractors, advocating on behalf of members and the broader profession for the interests of chiropractors and their patients at local, state, and national levels. Through lobbying efforts, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration with policymakers, the ACA works to influence policy, legislation and regulations that affect chiropractic care.

The ACA, advocates for increased access to chiropractic services, and the inclusion of chiropractors in the broader healthcare environment and initiatives. The Association educates health decision makers and the public on the benefits of chiropractic treatment, ensuring that the profession is recognised as a valuable component of the healthcare system.

Regulation / Accreditation

The chiropractic profession is a nationally regulated primary care profession under the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme (NRAS). The Chiropractic Board of Australia (CBA) regulates chiropractors for the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra). Chiropractors must be registered with the CBA and meet the Board’s registration standards to practise in Australia.

The Council on Chiropractic Education Australasia is the independent accrediting authority for chiropractic education under NRAS. The CCEA assesses, accredits and monitors tertiary level chiropractic courses across Australasia, develops internationally recognised accreditation, standards and processes and is the assessing authority for chiropractors seeking to migrate to Australia.

To maintain quality and safety, chiropractors complete continuing professional development to upgrade and maintain their skills.

Many chiropractors also hold state-based licencing to perform chiropractic diagnostic radiography (X-rays).

Contact

Address: Tenant B, 19 – 23 Moore St, Turner ACT, 2612
Phone: (02) 6173 1000
Email: inquiries@adea.com.au
Website: https://www.adea.com.au

About

The Australian Diabetes Educators Association (ADEA) was formed in 1981 and is the leading Australian organisation for health care professionals providing diabetes education and care.

The ADEA introduced the Credentialled Diabetes Educator® (CDE) program in 1986. At this time, it also implemented a professional recognition and development program to support diabetes educators working towards achieving and maintaining status as a CDE.

The ADEA actively promotes evidenced-based best practice diabetes education to ensure optimal health and well being for all people affected by, and at risk of, diabetes. The ADEA considers diabetes education a specialty field of health care practice.

The ADEA accredits post graduate courses in diabetes education and management across Australia. It sets standards and develops guidelines for the practice of diabetes education. It supports diabetes educators’ delivery of quality diabetes education by offering and encouraging participation in its Credentialling and Re-Credentialling Program, a voluntary professional development and recognition program for full members. The ADEA offers professional development events and activities and accredits those developed by other organisations.

The ADEA also develops and provides other resources and learning opportunities in diabetes management and care for non-members.

Vision

to come

Advocacy

to come

Regulation / Accreditation

to come

Vision & Mission

AHTA’s vision is to widen the recognition of hand therapy as an area of advanced practice.

AHTA’s mission is to advance hand therapy knowledge and practice to improve outcomes for patients and the community.

Advocacy

Hand therapy practitioners are experts in treating upper limb conditions resulting from injury, disease, or deformity. These include injuries involving fingers, thumbs, hands, wrists, elbows, and shoulders.

They treat fractures, tendon injuries, peripheral nerve injuries, sprains, chronic pain, tendinopathies and arthritis. Complex injuries include but are not limited to crush injuries, amputations, burns, and hand replants. 

The AHTA advocates for the value of the advanced scope Accredited Hand Therapist and the benefits to patients of providing value-based healthcare at the local, state, and national levels. 

Accreditation

AHTA has developed the Accredited Hand Therapist credential.

To become an Accredited Hand Therapist (AHT), as awarded by the Australian Hand Therapy Association (AHTA) Credentialing Council, you must undertake Accreditation – also known as Credentialing.

An Accredited Hand Therapist:

• is an AHPRA* registered Occupational Therapist or Physiotherapist

• has demonstrated an advanced level of competence in hand therapy

• has undertaken over 300 hours of advanced upper-limb education and assessment; a one-year mentorship; and has a minimum of 3600 hours in hand therapy clinical practice

• has been assessed as qualified and competent to provide safe, evidence-based diagnosis, advice and treatment, and

• is awarded the credential of Accredited Hand Therapist by the Australian Hand Therapy Association Credentialing Council.

*Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency

Contact

Address: 51 Stanley St West Melbourne Vic 3003
Phone: 0418 886 693
Email: info@acpp.net.au
Website: https://www.acpp.net.au/

About

The Australian Institute of Paramedic Practitioners (AIPP) is the peak body representing Paramedic Practitioners, and Paramedics with primary healthcare skills. AIPP intends to create employment pathways for these specialist Paramedics to practice, not just in ambulance services, but within multidisciplinary teams and in a variety of healthcare settings.

Vision

Paramedic Practitioners, and Paramedics with primary healthcare skills: improving the quality of community health care

Advocacy

The Australian Insititute of Paramedic Practitioners (AIPP) will create employment pathways for experienced and registered Paramedics that hold post graduate qualifications in primary healthcare. AIPP promotes, lobbies and advocates for the specialist paramedics throughout all layers of government and all sectors of the healthcare system.

Regulation / Accreditation

Paramedics are nationally regulated by the Paramedic Board of Australia for the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. Paramedics must complete a minimum of 30 hours of continuing professional development each year.

AIPP members must be registered paramedics with post graduate qualifications in primary healthcare. AIPP practitioner levels include general member, associate fellow or fellow. Member levels are determined by educational levels of courses approved by the AIPP.

Contact

Address: PO Box 7345, Beaumaris Vic 3193
(Physical address is Suite 2, 25-41 Redwood Drive, Dingley VIC 3172)
Phone: (03) 9586 6033
Email: info@austmta.org.au
Website: www.austmta.org.au

About

The Australian Music Therapy Association (AMTA) is the government-recognised peak body for the music therapy profession in Australia.

AMTA manages the registration and regulation of registered music therapists (RMTs). It promotes and advocates for the music therapy profession and works to increase consumer access to music therapy services. And it supports registered music therapists.

AMTA is also a member of National Alliance of Self Regulating Health Professions (NASRHP).

Vision

The Australian Music Therapy Association works to enable, advance and advocate for excellence in music therapy on behalf of its members and the broader community.

AMTA is governed by a constitution and code of ethics, standards of practice and by-laws for grievance procedures, and provides professional support to members. AMTA also provides information and education for health professionals, clients and the public, stages an annual conference, publishes an online peer reviewed journal, and provides a directory of registered music therapists and a job register for employers and members. The organisation also accredits university courses to ensure that music therapy training is based on the highest quality content and standards.

Advocacy

AMTA advocates for the value and accessibility of music therapy. A key area of focus is increasing public awareness of music therapy and access to music therapy services for people in the community via government-funded programs such as the National Disability Insurance Scheme and My Aged Care.

Regulation / Accreditation

Music therapy is a self-regulated profession. Registration with AMTA is granted with completion of a bachelor or masters degree from an accredited university. Music therapists are required to complete continuing professional development to maintain their registration with AMTA.

Music therapists must be registered by AMTA to be eligible to provide services under the National Disability Insurance Scheme or Helping Children with Autism program.

Contact

Phone: (03) 9816 4620 / Tollfree 1300 668 194
Email: admin@aopa.org.au
Website: www.aopa.org.au
Address: PO Box 1132, Hartwell VIC 3124

About

The Australian Orthotic Prosthetic Association (AOPA) is the peak professional body representing more than 500 orthotist/prosthetist members. The organisation was established in 1975 as the Australian Orthotic Association before becoming the Australian Orthotic Prosthetic Association and realising the organisation’s vision to represent all practitioners as a dual stream profession.

Purpose

AOPA’s purpose is to self-regulate the profession and promote the training, education and professional status of orthotist/prosthetists throughout Australia.

Advocacy

AOPA engages in a range of advocacy activities to support recognition for the profession in Australia. AOPA works to strengthen professional development standards, advocate for increased professional recognition and enhance the association’s self-regulation mechanism.

AOPA aims to strengthen alliances with federal and state government, industry stakeholders, employers and the public. AOPA will continue to represent its membership and consumers on a wide range of issues including qualifications, professional standards and funding matters.

Regulation / Accreditation

Orthotics/ Prosthetics is a self-regulated profession. Members of AOPA voluntarily commit to upholding the professional standards set by the association to use the title Certified Orthotist/Prosthetist. Orthotist/

Prosthetists are required to complete continuing professional development requirements as a component of certification and uphold a suite of standards and codes. AOPA is a Full Member of the National Alliance of Self-Regulating Health Professions (NASRHP).

Contact

Phone: 1300 306 622
Email: info@australian.physio
Website: australian.physio
Address: Level 1/1175 Toorak Road, Camberwell, VIC 3124

About

The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) is the peak body representing the interests of more than 33,000 physiotherapy members in Australia. It does so by advocating for access to quality physiotherapy services, providing leadership in the wider health landscape, creating lifelong information and learning opportunities for members, and working with stakeholders to support members’ interests.

Vision

The APA is the peak body for Australia’s 45,000 physiotherapists.  We educate, advocate and collaborate – empowering physiotherapists to thrive.

This is so our members have fulfilling careers, a strong collective voices and a united professional community.  So that physiotherapy is recognised as essential to Australia’s healthcare system, making people’s lives better.

Our future is for everyone to access a physiotherapist when and where they need one and for every physiotherapist to be part of the APA.

Advocacy

The APA’s vision is for all Australians to have access to quality physiotherapy, when and where required, to optimise health and wellbeing and for the community to recognise the benefit of choosing physiotherapy.

We are committed to professional excellence and career success for our members, which translates into better patient outcomes and improved health conditions for all Australians. Through our national groups we offer advanced training and collegial support from physiotherapists working in similar areas.

Regulation / Accreditation

The physiotherapy profession is nationally regulated by the Physiotherapy Board of Australia for the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. The APA’s continuing professional development program requires members to accrue a minimum of 20 hours of CPD every year as set by the Physiotherapy Board of Australia.

Contact

Phone: (03) 9416 3111
Email: info@podiatry.org.au
Website: www.podiatry.org.au
Address: 89 Nicholson Street, Brunswick East VIC 3057

About

Podiatrists hold incredible power to help people move and thrive through life. As the peak body for podiatry, the Australian Podiatry Association is led by our value; to inspire growth and champion potential. 

The power of foot and lower limb health can change lives, enable movement, improve mental health, and even extend lives. And this is just the beginning. The impact of podiatry on our society and the wider healthcare picture is nothing short of transformative.

Vision

Amazing podiatry always.

Advocacy

The Australian Podiatry Association leads national advocacy to influence policy, funding, and reform that supports podiatrists and their patients. We engage at federal, state, and local levels, championing issues that matter across the profession. Our advocacy is grounded in data and collaboration—shaped by workforce, national policy input, and partnerships with agencies.

Regulation / Accreditation

The podiatry profession is nationally regulated by the Podiatry Board of Australia for the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. Podiatrists are required to complete 20 hours of continuing professional development each year as set out by the Podiatry Board of Australia.

Contact

Phone: 03 8662 3300 | Tollfree: 1800 333 497
Email: contactus@psychology.org.au
Website: www.psychology.org.au
Address: Level 11, 257 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

About

The Australian Psychological Society (APS) is the leading professional association for psychologists in Australia, representing over 25,000 members.

Dedicated to advancing psychology, the APS is a progressive voice dedicated to improving the mental health and wellbeing of Australians.

It promotes education, advocacy and ethical practice; provides the profession with professional development; sets ethical standards and offers resources for both practitioners and the public.

Vision

The APS is committed to being the strongest voice for improving the lives of Australians through psychology. The APS represents its members and partners as an advocate for applying psychological science and practice, to support and empower communities and individuals so Australians can thrive and lead fulfilling lives.

The APS supports its members through professional guidance, resources and advocacy, while promoting the value of psychology to government, stakeholders and the public.

Advocacy

The Australian Psychological Society (APS) serves as the authoritative voice for psychology in Australia. Advocacy efforts focus on areas that include:

• Enhancing education and training standards for psychologists

• Promoting the delivery of psychological services across private, public, and non-government sectors

• Upholding and advancing high professional and ethical standards within the field

• Contributing psychological insights to public debate and policy-making to support community wellbeing and social justice

Through these efforts, the APS works to ensure that psychological knowledge and practice meaningfully contribute to the health and wellbeing of all Australians.

Regulation / Accreditation

In Australia, the psychology profession is regulated under the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme, administered by the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) and supported by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

To practise as a psychologist, individuals must complete a minimum six-year sequence of education and training, typically comprising a four-year accredited undergraduate degree followed by either a two-year accredited postgraduate degree or a 5+1 internship pathway.

All psychologists are required to adhere to the PsyBA's Code of Conduct and undertake mandatory continuing professional development (CPD) to maintain their registration.

Additionally, the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) is responsible for accrediting education providers and programs of study for the psychology profession.

Contact

Address: Suite 1040-1044 (Level 10), 1 Queens Road Melbourne VIC 3004
Telephone: 03 9419 3336
Email: info@asmirt.org
Website: www.asmirt.org

About

The Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy (ASMIRT) is a not-for-profit, professional member association supporting representing more than 9000 member radiographers, radiation therapists, nuclear medicine technologists and sonographers.

Vision & Mission

Excellence in medical radiation practice to enable optimal health care for all.

ASMIRT is a member organisation that represents and supports medical radiation professionals. ASMIRT embraces innovation in health care and promotes excellence in medical radiation science through leadership in advocacy, professional standards, education and research.

Advocacy

ASMIRT works to improve healthcare by: 

• Advocating for patients

• Influencing local, national and international policy and practice

• Advancing professional standards and pathways

• Leading and engaging in research and learning.

Regulation / Accreditation

All Medical Radiation Science practitioners are required to register with the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia (MRPBA).  The Registration Board is the regulating authority for both disciplines and regulations relating to registration.

Licensing of Diagnostic Radiographers/Medical Imaging Technologists and Radiation Therapists varies from State to State or Territory.

Contact

Phone: 1800 643 155
Email: admin@asorc.org.au
Website: www.asorc.org.au
Find a Rehabilitation Counsellor

About

The Australian Society of Rehabilitation Counsellors (ASORC) is the peak professional body representing Rehabilitation Counsellors throughout Australia. Established in 1976, ASORC is a non-party political, non-sectarian and not for profit organisation and Company Limited by Guarantee.

ASORC represents the profession of Rehabilitation Counselling in advocacy, policy and standards work, and provides high quality resources, education and supervision necessary for members to achieve career advancement, peer engagement and professional development. ASORC members are expected to maintain currency of practice, professional training and development and adhere to the Code of Ethics.

The profession of Rehabilitation Counselling is grounded in human rights, the value of work, and the importance of community integration for people living with disability and social disadvantage.

Rehabilitation Counsellors are tertiary qualified Allied Health Professionals who combine the therapeutic approaches of counselling and use work as rehabilitation. A Rehabilitation Counsellor is a specialised counsellor who has a deep understanding of the impact of disability, health conditions and disadvantage on people’s lives, and the importance that work and education play in achieving a sense of independence, optimism, self-esteem and inclusion,

Rehabilitation Counsellors support people:

• who have experienced an injury and/or trauma

• with disability

• with a health condition that impacts work/study

• living with acute and chronic pain

• in the Australian Defence Force and Veterans

Vision

To come

Advocacy

To come

Regulation / Accreditation

To come

Contact

Email: member.services@anzacata.org
Website: www.anzacata.org
Address: PO Box 2391, North Brighton VIC 3186

About

The Australian, New Zealand and Asian Creative Arts Therapies Association (ANZACATA) is the leading arts therapy organisation in the Asia Pacific region, representing more than 2000 members.

The organisation was first established in 1987 as the Australian National Art Therapy Association Inc., later it became the Australian and New Zealand Art Therapy Association and in 2018, it joined with the Australian Creative Arts Therapy Association to become ANZACATA.

Vision

ANZACATA is the peak not-for-profit, professional, and educational organisation dedicated to the growth, development and support of Creative Arts Therapies. The objects of the Association are to uphold and enhance industry standards and professionalism in the field of Creative Arts Therapies.

We are an evidence-based profession which values working ethically. We embrace diversity and connection and see arts as central to the therapeutic process. We aim to promote creative arts therapies as central to the enhancement of human wellbeing.

Advocacy

ANZACATA seeks to advocate for the profession and to ensure that the training and practice of practising members is in accordance with the highest international standards.  The organisation attends to the ethical standards of training, professional practice and advocacy for the self-regulating profession of arts therapy in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Regulation / Accreditation

Arts therapy is a self-regulated profession. ANZACATA provides accreditation to members with approved university qualifications and a minimum of 750 hours of supervised clinical training to be eligible to use the title Registered Arts Therapist. Arts therapists are required to complete annual continuing professional development activities to meet the professional standards as set out by ANZACATA.

ANZACATA reviews and approves 10 university Masters degrees specifically covering creative arts therapy.

Contact

Phone: 1300 767 348
Email: info@chiropracticaustralia.org.au
Website: www.chiropracticaustralia.org.au
Address: 88 Langridge Street, Collingwood VIC 3066

About

Chiropractic Australia (CA) is the peak representative body for more than 1,700 chiropractors, researchers, and students nationwide. Building upon the strong foundation of professional development and clinical research established by our predecessor, COCA, CA exists to empower our growing membership through meaningful support, impactful advocacy, and world-class education. Committed to ethical, effective and informed practice, CA is striving for greater participation and utilisation of Chiropractic within Australia's broader healthcare system.

Vision

Leading the future of chiropractic care as an integral part of Australian healthcare.

Advocacy

Chiropractic Australia works to ensure the collective voice of our professional community is effectively heard, meaningfully recognised and fairly represented as part of both the Allied Health and Mainstream Healthcare Systems. Encompassing a wide range of engagement initiatives and relationships with key stakeholders, regulators and policymakers, our current representative priorities include:

• Advancing Medicare reforms to enable direct referral pathways and appropriate funding models

• Integrating chiropractors (practicing at top of scope) within multidisciplinary care teams to improve health outcomes and access to Primary Care

• Ensuring other policy and regulatory settings better utilise the chiropractic workforce to reduce system pressure

Regulation / Accreditation

The chiropractic profession is nationally regulated by the Chiropractic Board of Australia (CBA) for the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Chiropractors must be registered with the Chiropractic Board of Australia, and meet the Board’s registration standards, in order to practise in Australia.

Contact

Phone: 02 6189 1200 or 1800 812 942
Email: info@dietitiansaustralia.org.au
Website: https://dietitiansaustralia.org.au
Address: Level 3, 1 Bowes Street Woden ACT 2606
Postal Address: PO Box 2087 Woden ACT 2606

About

Dietitians Australia is the peak body for dietetic and nutrition professionals, representing over 9000 members in Australia and overseas. As the leading voice of nutrition in Australia, our role is to support our members, advocate for our profession and build healthier communities.

We do this through:

• Advocating on public health nutrition issues

• Raising the profile of the dietetic profession through public awareness and communication activities

• Providing CPD opportunities and events for members

• Facilitating networking and connection opportunities for members

• Managing the regulatory and credentialing aspects of the profession

• Publishing high-quality research on nutrition and dietetics

Advocacy

Dietitians Australia advocates on public health nutrition issues to ensure all Australians get sound advice. Our aim is to improve nutritional health across the country and give expert advice to support the health of all Australians.

We work with the government, agencies, and other bodies to influence health policy. We represent our Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) and support their work in helping Australians become healthier.

Regulation / Accreditation

Dietitians Australia manages the regulatory and credentialing aspects of the profession. This includes the accreditation of university programs and the Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) credential.

APDs are Australia’s leaders in nutrition, equipped with the skills to provide personalised and evidence-based nutrition advice and support.

In a world of false claims and unfounded nutritional advice, Australians can be confident the advice they receive from an APD is solid and dependable.

APDs are the only recognised nutrition professionals able to provide dietetic services under:

• Medicare

• The Department of Veterans’ Affairs

• most private health funds.

Contact

Phone: (07) 3171 3335
Email: info@essa.org.au
Website: www.essa.org.au
Address: Locked Bag 4102, Ascot QLD 4007

About

ESSA is the nation’s leading voice on exercise and sports science. We govern and represent over 10,000 degree-qualified professionals who support Australians to reach their health and performance goals.

Vision & Mission

An Australia where exercise and sports science is recognised as vital to health and performance.

Advocacy

ESSA advocates on behalf of three exercise and sports science professional groups to improve equitable access to allied health services and consumer health outcomes:

• Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs)

• Accredited Exercise Scientists (AESs)

• Accredited Sports Scientists (ASpSs)/High Performance Managers (AHPMs)

The organisation’s advocacy activities are focused on supporting and progressing ESSA’s vision to represent and advance the exercise and sports science profession, driving excellence and community recognition.

Regulation / Accreditation

ESSA manages the accreditation of the following self-regulating health professionals:

• Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs)

• Accredited Exercise Scientists(AESs)

• Accredited Sports Scientists (ASpScs)/High Performance Managers (AHPMs).

These professionals are highly trained with a minimum bachelor degree qualifications and complete additional professional practice annually to maintain their accreditation. For example, AEPs hold, at a minimum, a 4-year bachelor degree that meets the Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) Level 7 requirements.

As allied health professionals, AEP services are recognised in government health funding including Medicare, DVA, NDIS and the majority of workers compensation authorities and private health insurers.

Contact

Phone: 1300 682 878
Email: info@otaus.com.au
Website:  https://otaus.com.au
Address: 5/340 Gore St, Fitzroy VIC 3065

About

Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA) is the peak membership body representing occupational therapists nationally.  We empower and elevate over 30,000 exceptional professionals who in turn, work in partnership with clients and communities to lead meaningful lives. We’re the single, unifying connection point for occupational therapists in the nation, leading the profession through education, support and advocacy, so every OT is informed, inspired and fulfilled in their profession.

Vision

OTA’s purpose is protecting and progressing occupational therapy in Australia by empowering OTs and their communities. OTA provides services to members to enhance best practice through professional development, practice support, and access to profession-specific information and resources.

Advocacy

Occupational Therapy Australia undertakes a range of professional representation activities with federal and state/territory government bodies and external agencies over issues of concern to occupational therapists. The organisation regularly contributes to government discussion papers, inquiries and submissions to ensure the profession is represented and promoted at all levels of government and stakeholder groups.

Regulation / Accreditation

Occupational therapists are nationally regulated by the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia for the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. The Occupational Therapy Board of Australia website is occupationaltherapyboard.gov.au. Occupational therapists are required to undertake continuing professional development to meet the requirements of annual national registration.

OTA provides endorsement recognising the additional knowledge, skills and experience of OTs focusing their scope of practice on Mental Health. OTA mental health endorsement program enables endorsed OTs to provide health services under a range of government funding schemes, such as Medicare.

Contact

Phone: (03) 9668 8500
Email:  national@optometry.org.au
Website: https://www.optometry.org.au/
Address: 28 Drummond Street, Carlton Vic 3053

About

Optometry Australia represents 85% of Australia’s registered optometrists, making us the largest community of eye health professionals nationwide. Since 1918, we’ve united the sector to position Australia as a global leader in vision and eye care. With over a century of service and advocacy, no organisation better understands or supports the profession. We are the most influential voice advancing optometry and leading the future of patient-centred eye health in Australia.

Vision & Mission

All Australians deserve access to the best in primary eye health and vision care. With 12 million Australians reporting long-term eye conditions—and 90% of vision impairment being preventable or treatable—optometry plays a vital role in improving community eye health.

Optometry Australia’s mission is to lead, engage, unite and promote the profession to ensure the sustainability and continued evolution of this essential sector, supporting better outcomes for patients and a stronger future for optometrists across Australia.

Advocacy

Optometry Australia advocates for a strong, sustainable and progressive optometry profession, working closely with governments and stakeholders to ensure a responsive, accessible and high-quality primary eye care system. Our advocacy supports optometrists to practise to full and evolving scope in integrated, culturally safe care models.

Optometry Australia champions policy, funding and workforce settings that align with community need—promoting fair and sustainable fees, improved workplace conditions, and a well-distributed, future-ready workforce. Through evidence-informed advocacy, we aim to secure a profession that is appropriately sized, well-supported, and positioned to deliver its full potential for the benefit of all Australians.

Regulation / Accreditation

Optometry is nationally regulated by the Optometry Board of Australia for the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is a mandatory requirement for all optometrists registered to practise with the Optometry Board of Australia. The Optometry Board of Australia authorises Optometry Australia to administer the CPD accreditation program on its behalf, which includes granting of accreditation for CPD activities and assigning CPD points.

Contact

Phone: (03) 9586 6080
Email: office@orthoptics.org.au
Website: www.orthoptics.org.au
Address: Postal Address: PO Box 7345, Beaumaris VIC 3193

About

Orthoptics Australia is the peak body for orthoptists, representing over 500 members. The organisation promotes and advances the orthoptic profession across public hospitals, private practices, agencies, and ophthalmology clinics.

Vision

Orthoptics Australia’s vision is to support orthoptists to provide excellence and equity in eye health care.to achieve this vision OA’s priorities are:

• Building a connected community of members, the eye care sector and broader community

• Strengthening our evidence-base to advance our scope of practice and to provide a foundation for advocacy

• Increasing awareness and recognition of the value, diversity and expertise of the orthoptic profession, and

• Advocate for growth of the profession in number, professional opportunities and influence across Australia

By supporting members, OA aims to improve eye health outcomes across all healthcare settings and the wider community.

Advocacy

Orthoptics Australia is committed to promoting and advancing the discipline of orthoptists.  OA advocates for:

• Expanding access to orthoptists to enhance early diagnosis and treatment

• Removing barriers that that prevent orthoptists from working to their full scope of practice

• Greater investment in the orthoptic workforce, including regulatory improvements, data collection, and education.

Regulation / Accreditation

The practice of Orthoptics is self-regulated. The Australian Orthoptic Board (AOB) provides accreditation to members who have undertaken an approved university qualification. Registration is not mandatory. Members must also meet ongoing continuing professional development standards and a code of ethics. There are mandated Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements to be registered with the Board. 

Orthoptists must be registered with the Australian Orthoptic Board to qualify for Medicare benefits, private health fund benefits and to provide services for the NDIS.

About

Osteopathy Australia champions osteopaths, the profession itself, and consumer rights to osteopathic care. Through lobbying, policy development, and advocacy, the association promotes awareness and upholds high standards of practice. It provides comprehensive support throughout an osteopath’s career—from student to seasoned practitioner—offering:

• Informed guidance, resources, and advice

• Clinical excellence and business development tools

• Opportunities for ongoing professional development and learning

Vision

Vision: Osteopathy is an integral and valued part of Australian healthcare

Purpose: We support our members and osteopathy by advancing excellence in practice, education, and research to enhance the health and care of all Australians

Osteopathy Australia works with governments, regulators, and health bodies on professional, educational, legislative and regulatory matters. We work with the Osteopathy Board of Australia, the Australian and New Zealand Osteopathic Council, and other professional bodies and associations through our collaborative work with AHPA.

Advocacy

Our advocacy has one clear purpose: supporting our members. We amplify the voices of osteopaths in key discussions with government, health agencies, and industry bodies—ensuring they are heard where it matters most. From funding models to scope of practice, we drive policies that recognise osteopaths' clinical capability and their vital role as primary allied health professionals. By supporting their ability to provide effective, whole-body care, Osteopathy Australia is shaping a stronger, more sustainable future for the profession—so members can focus on what truly counts: helping patients live well.

Regulation / Accreditation

Osteopathy is a regulated health profession under the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) and overseen by the Osteopathy Board of Australia. Like all Ahpra-registered professions, practising osteopaths must meet strict national standards in education, professional conduct, and ongoing professional development. While we do not regulate the profession, we collaborate closely with regulators to promote evidence-informed practice and uphold public trust.

To qualify, osteopaths must complete a university course accredited by the Australian Osteopathic Accreditation Council, earning at least an AQF 7. Their studies cover anatomy, biomechanics, human movement, musculoskeletal and neurological systems, clinical intervention approaches, and biomedical sciences—including pharmacology—all underpinned by a biopsychosocial management approach.

About

The Pedorthic Association of Australia (PAA) is the peak body representing pedorthists, who are client-focused health professionals dedicated to the management of foot, ankle, and gait-related conditions. Pedorthists specialise in the use of prefabricated and custom-made orthopaedic / medical grade footwear, foot orthoses, and ankle braces to improve mobility and overall health.

Vision

To advance pedorthics as a vital component of foot and lower limb healthcare, ensuring more Australians can access and benefit from high-quality pedorthic care.

Advocacy

The Pedorthic Association of Australia advocates for the recognition and integration of pedorthics within Australia’s healthcare system. PAA engages with Federal and State governments, regulatory bodies, and key stakeholders to raise awareness of the profession’s value and ensure pedorthists are acknowledged as essential allied health professionals.

Regulation / Accreditation

Pedorthics in Australia is a self-regulated profession, with the Pedorthic Association of Australia responsible for setting and upholding professional standards and codes of practice. These standards provide assurance of competence, safety, and ethical conduct. PAA is a full member of the National Alliance of Self-Regulating Health Professions (NASRHP), and its certified members—such as Certified Pedorthist Custom Makers—must adhere to these standards and complete annual continuing professional development to maintain certification.

About

The Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) is a national peak body for counsellors and psychotherapists in Australia.  

PACFA’s mission is to advance the health and well-being of diverse Australia communities by developing the practice of psychotherapy and counselling and through the capacity and success of our members. PACFA supports its individual and organisational members through advocacy on behalf of the psychotherapy and counselling profession to communities, government, private health funds and other key stakeholders  

PACFA’s advocacy aims include:  

• Increased recognition of counsellors and psychotherapists as skilled members of the mental health workforce by governments, private health funds and other key stakeholders  

• Improving the mental health and wellbeing of diverse groups in Australian communities through better access to counsellors and psychotherapists  

• Support for and development of the counselling and psychotherapy workforce  

• Strengthening the capacity of PACFA as a peak body for the counselling and psychotherapy profession 

• Development of the evidence-base relating to effectiveness of counselling and psychotherapy 

PACFA’s role as a national peak is the effective regulation of the counselling and psychotherapy profession to ensure the quality and safety of the services delivered by our members.  PACFA have a range of industry-based regulatory mechanisms in place to support self-regulation of the profession including:  

• Standards for counselling and psychotherapy training 

• National Register of suitably qualified counsellors and psychotherapists

• Annual supervision and professional development requirements

• Insurance requirements 

• Code of Ethics and other standards for professional practice 

• Complaints handling process  

In addition to having robust processes for self-regulation, counsellors and psychotherapists are also subject to a limited form of co-regulation that applies to all self-regulating health professions through the National Code of Conduct for Health Care Workers. 

About

Speech Pathology Australia (SPA) is the national peak body for the speech pathology profession in Australia, representing more than 15,000 members. Speech pathologists are university qualified allied health professionals with expertise in the assessment and treatment of communication and/or swallowing needs across the life span.

Vision

Effective communication and safe swallowing for all throughout their life.

Advocacy

Speech Pathology Australia (SPA) believes that all people with communication and swallowing needs should have timely access to safe, high-quality speech pathology care.

SPA advocates on behalf of their members and consumers to influence policy development, and legislative and regulatory reforms to reflect the needs and priorities of our members and people with communication and swallowing needs. SPA engages directly with Members of Parliament, Senators and key stakeholders such as government policy developers, decision makers and the various sectors where our members work.

Regulation / Accreditation

Speech Pathology is a self-regulated profession, with Speech Pathology Australia (SPA) setting and upholding the professional and ethical standards for speech pathologists. SPA is a full member of the National Alliance of Self-Regulating Health Professions (NASRHP). SPA certifies practitioners through the Certified Practising Speech Pathologist (CPSP) program, accredits university courses, assesses overseas-qualified practitioners, and manages complaints.

CPSP certification ensures that practitioners meet high standards, engage in continual professional development (CPD), and comply with ethical and legal obligations. To maintain CPSP status, speech pathologists must hold a recognised qualification, demonstrate recent practice, and meet annual CPD requirements. CPSP status is required to provide services under programs like Medicare, private health insurance, the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) and some other schemes.