The psychology profession in Australia is stepping into a new chapter. The PsyBA Code of Conduct for psychologists will formally replace the APS Code of Ethics on 1st December 2025. For many, this feels like more than just a regulatory update, it’s a signal of where our profession is heading.
Why the change?
The shift reflects a broader movement across health professions. The new Code ensures greater consistency across disciplines, clarifies expectations for psychologists and clients alike, and highlights emerging priorities such as cultural safety, systemic responsibility, and ongoing reflexivity.
Key differences to note
While many familiar ethical principles remain, psychologists will notice some important updates:
- Rules-based language moving beyond broad principles to explicit, observable standards.
- Professional reflexivity greater emphasis on ongoing self-awareness and awareness of systemic impact.
- Cultural safety now clearly articulated as a professional responsibility.
- Client rights and transparency with stronger expectations around informed consent, feedback, and communication.
What this means for practice
These changes won’t overhaul everything you do, but they do require reflection. How do you demonstrate reflexivity in your daily practice? How do you check cultural assumptions? How do you integrate systemic considerations into case formulation? How do you ensure that informed consent is current?
Moving forward with support
Change can feel daunting, but it also brings opportunity. We’ve developed training designed to help you not just understand the new Code, but apply it meaningfully. Our courses include case studies, discussion, and practical strategies so you can integrate the new standards into everyday practice with confidence.
The Code is not just a compliance document. It’s a guide for high-quality, ethical care. Embracing it will strengthen our profession and better serve our clients.