It’s a question that people often ask APAC. So here’s a quick rundown on the differing roles of organisations in the realm of psychology.
The Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) works to ensure that Australia’s psychologists are suitably trained, qualified and safe to practise. Public safety is a priority.
Its functions 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.
PsyBA contracts the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) to be the higher education accreditation authority for the psychology profession in Australia.
APAC accredits more than 850 programs of study across 42 higher education providers including Australian university programs delivered in Malaysia and Singapore. APAC’s accreditation outcomes are sent to PsyBA for approval.
APAC also reviews accreditation standards and makes recommendations to PsyBA.
Psychology students and early career psychologists can join the Australian Psychology Society (APS).
Benefits include expert information and advice, job opportunities and opportunities to network with or be mentored by established psychologists in diverse settings around Australia.
Similar benefits are also offered by the Australian Association of Psychologists (AAPi).
Clinical psychologists who hold accredited postgraduate qualifications with endorsement in clinical psychology can join the Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA).