Consultation paper released

07 Aug 2015

The Psychology Board of Australia (the Board) has published consultation paper 25: Consultation on ending the higher degree exemption from sitting the National Psychology Examination.

The Board has applied an exemption from sitting the examination to graduates via the higher degree training pathway (those who have completed an accredited six-year or above professional Masters, Doctorate, or combined Masters/PhD qualification that leads to area of practice endorsement). This exemption is due to end on 30 June 2016.

The Board is seeking feedback on the proposal to not extend the exemption for higher degree students beyond the 30 June 2016 date, and to revise the Guidelines for the National Psychology Exam accordingly. The Board has recommended various options for transition for higher degree students should the proposal to end the exemption be approved.

The Board is of the view that all applicants for general registration in psychology should be required to pass the National Psychology Examination. The Board’s rationale for ending the higher exemption is based on the importance of ensuring the minimum standard is demonstrated by all psychologists with general registration in Australia and an understanding of the complexity, scale and size of the psychology profession, including the diversity of training pathways and the various contexts where psychologists work.

The Board is inviting comments on ending the higher degree exemption from sitting the National Psychology Exam from all stakeholders. The consultation paper is available under Current consultations and the Board is accepting submissions until Friday 2 October 2015.