Invited Speaker: Rachel Phillips, Chair Psychology Board of Australia (AUS)
The psychology higher degree reform project
and other Psychology Board of Australia
(PsyBA) updates
Abstract
This presentation will provide an overview of the Psychology Higher Education training reform project (the project) and other PsyBA current program of work. The project is a once in generation opportunity to review the way Psychologists are trained in Australia. The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care has asked the Board to provide recommendations on options for the redesign of the psychology higher education pathway. In particular, the project will consider the appropriateness and proposed design of a single, shorter, and more practical course of study to qualify as a registered psychologist in Australia, beginning in the undergraduate years. The presentation will provide an overview of the project plan and scope and there will be opportunities for feedback and questions. The presentation will also cover other updates including the implementation of the Professional competencies for Psychologists, and the Board’s Code of Conduct, both of which will take effect on 1 December 2025.
Learning objectives: Delegates will be provided with an overview of:
1. The regulation of the psychology profession and the current strategic priorities for the Board
2. How regulation and the Board’s priorities may affect their current and future practice.
Level: Basic, applies to all psychologists.
Presenter: Rachel Phillips
Rachel Phillips is the Chair of the Psychology Board of Australia (2018 to current). Ms Phillips is of Scottish descent and was born on the lands of Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people. She now lives on Tulmur country, the traditional lands of the Yagerra, Turrbul, and Ugarapul peoples. Ms Phillips has been involved in the regulation of psychologists since 2010, and has a keen interest in the governance, culture and leadership of the profession and complex systems. Ms Phillips has predominantly worked in the Queensland public health sector, in clinical, professional and management leadership roles.
Keywords: practice, workforce, training