Changes to the Code of Ethics: What’s happening and what it means
From 1 December 2025, psychologists will be required to practice in accordance with the Psychology Board of Australia’s Code of Conduct, replacing the APS Code of Ethics as the profession’s regulatory framework.
This change reflects a national move toward a single, consistent standard across regulated health professions.
While the APS Code of Ethics will no longer be in effect, it remains a valued historical document, and many of its principles are echoed in the incoming Code of Conduct.
To support psychologists through this transition, the APS is releasing a new suite of professional practice guidelines.
These guidelines are designed to:
- Support ethical, safe and effective practice under the new Code of Conduct
- Address common areas of professional responsibility and risk
- Help members apply the Code of Conduct to specific settings and contexts.
Accessing the guidelines
The APS professional practice guidelines are available exclusively to APS members.