Association Update

NAIDOC Week

As many of you are aware, July 4-11 is an incredibly important week in Australia, it is NAIDOC Week. The 2021 theme is 'Heal Country'. AAPi is committed to contributing to the necessary healing that needs to occur. I look forward to keeping you updated on our actions in this regard.

Ahpra Senate Inquiry

This week, AAPi was invited to present to the Senate inquiry into Ahpra's handling of registrations and notifications under the National Law. This was an important opportunity for AAPi to represent our members. In our submission to the Senate inquiry, our key themes included:

• The flawed and biased endorsement system
• The cessation of the 4+2 pathway
• The presumption of guilt in the notification process and non-utilisation of alternate processes 
• Vexatious notifications 
• The need to focus on education and training rather than punishment
• The lack of support for psychologists facing a notification
• The psychologically damaging nature of the current system
• The excessive timeframes for notifications and complaints to be resolved

AAPi President Anne Marie Collins presented to the Senate Committee. APS CEO Dr Zena Burgess also presented during the same session. Anne Marie and Dr Burgess were united in many of the issues regarding the notification process and should be commended for their strong advocacy for psychologists. The vast majority of peak bodies who participated in the Senate hearings raised similar concerns about the complaints and notifications process. AAPi has been invited to present further information and evidence. I will keep you updated with the outcomes of this process.

NDIS Independent Assessments Scrapped

In breaking news, the government has scrapped their plans to implement mandatory independent assessments for NDIS participants. AAPi has strongly advocaced against independent assessments for NDIS participants. AAPi has consistently lobbied that a client's treating psychologist/health professional is best placed to understand and report on the needs of their clients. AAPi will continue to work with the NDIA for a person-centred approach that is beneficial for clients and psychologists.

Message to our Greater Sydney Members

I understand the ongoing restrictions and uncertainly is challenging both personally and professionally. The AAPi Member Community Forum is a key way to stay connected and to seek clarification or support on any issues. AAPi is sending regular updates to members with all the current advice and information. We held our virtual 'COVID Coffee Catchup' this week for our NSW members to come together, we will continue to hold these throughout the lockdown period. Please reach out to AAPi and the AAPi community for support during this time.

AAPi is working daily to represent all psychologists. It is an absolute privilege to serve you. Thank you to all our members, established and new, for your support.