The Australian Psychological Society (APS) welcomes the Federal Government’s decision to amend its ‘Job-ready Graduates’ legislation, which had previously proposed a significant increase to the student contribution for those wishing to study psychology.
APS President Ros Knight said the proposed changes would have impacted students, universities and the psychology profession, and ultimately had serious consequences for the communities across Australia reeling from drought, bushfires and the pandemic.
“We believe prospective students may have balked at an increase in fees of up to $25,000 for a degree in psychology, and chosen a path other than psychology.
“Universities would have also lost out. They are struggling due to a reduction in student numbers and the adaptations they have had to make because of COVID-19; the added burden of receiving lower government subsidies for psychology programs could have seen some programs discontinued, or resulted in academic jobs being lost.
“Ultimately, all of this would have meant we have fewer trained psychologists in the community.
Ms Knight said the APS was pleased Government had taken the feedback of the Society and its 26,000 psychologist members on board.
“This is a sensible decision and it shows the government has taken a responsible stance in support of the mental health professional pipeline.
“Support for the mental health of communities is essential as communities will face the after-effects of COVID-19 and natural disasters for many years.
“Providing a more affordable pathway for psychology will help to ensure Australians have access to the support they need as we emerge from this challenging time.
“We look forward to continuing to work with the Education Department on future decisions that might impact psychology pathways,” she said.
For more information, or to arrange an interview call the APS Media team on 03 8662 3358 / 0435 896 444, or email. Find the APS Media team on Twitter: @AustPsych
The APS is the largest professional organisation for psychologists in Australia, representing more than 27,000 members. The APS is committed to advancing psychology as a discipline and profession. It spreads the message that psychologists make a difference to people’s lives, through improving psychological knowledge and community wellbeing.