While a number of updates to resources were made such as the dementia and bipolar practice guides and information sheets and updated information on new Medicare initiatives (e.g., eating disorder and bushfire Medicare items), a significant part of 2020 focused on the development of resources to support members and members of the public in the context of the bushfires and COVID-19. 

Close to 50 new COVID-19 and bushfire resources were developed. These included practical information for psychologists around changes required to meet Government requirements as well as resources focusing on:

• the use of telehealth
• a comprehensive review of video conferencing platforms
• working with children and young people
• preparing for the new normal
• the development of a COVID safe plan to return to the office.

A number of the Colleges stepped forward to produce specialist information sheets and many members contributed to InPsych articles and resources.

In addition, information sheets were developed targeting members of the public, which focussed on managing anxiety, dealing with social isolation and connecting with psychologists via telehealth. These were shared widely via social media, both locally and internationally, and by organisations in all sectors.

The key member publication, InPsych, was distributed to over 25,000 members with the April/May edition being provided in an online format only due to the restrictions as a result of COVID-19. Cover features included open science, hoarding disorder, urban living, eating disorders, memory and a special feature on COVID-19. In addition, the latest information for practitioners, published research articles of interest and member activities were regular items. Important issues covered included the impact of the summer’s bushfires and changes to Medicare services for psychology.

Two ethical guidelines were revised:

• Ethical guidelines for reporting abuse and neglect, and criminal activity – Revised October 2019
• Ethical guidelines on record keeping – Revised February 2020

APS Communications

The frequency of APS National Office communications to members increased significantly during the bushfire and COVID-19 crises. The APS kept the lines of communication open to members at all times, even through what proved to be a seamless transition to a fully virtual office. Staff heard directly from members via email, webinars, phone calls. Regular email updates were provided, sometimes several times a week and over weekends, as news broke. A COVID-19 blog was established, storing all of these updates in one place on the website. Members were hugely responsive to this level of communication during the difficult times, and many shared their appreciation.

“Thank you to all of the APS staff who are working so hard to keep us informed, educated and adjusting to the new normal. It's much appreciated.” Erica, Melbourne, Counselling Psychologist, MAPS

“Thank you for your hard work and advocacy lately! I'm very thankful to be part the APS.” Jacqui, Sydney, Provisional Psychologist, Assoc MAPS

“Just a thanks to the APS for the amazing job you have been doing over this month… I and many others are very grateful.” Anna, Melbourne, Psychologist and Lecturer, MAPS

“The APS has been responsive, assertive and very supportive to those of us out in the world in clinical roles - especially for those of us in private practice. It’s been a godsend.” Jacinta, Clinical Psychologist, Melbourne, MAPS