Important Information from Ahpra and the National Boards

Content warning: This email and links discuss family, domestic and sexual violence.

Please take care when reading as this content may be distressing.  You can also contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN for support.

ATMS is sharing the following update from Ahpra regarding family, domestic and sexual violence (FDSV). As trusted healthcare professionals, practitioners play an important role in recognising and responding appropriately to family, domestic and sexual violence. Ahpra, the National Boards and Accreditation Authorities have released a joint statement outlining their commitment to strengthening the health workforce’s capability in this area, along with new guidance to support practitioners in meeting their professional obligations.

Please see below for the full update and supporting information provided by Ahpra:

Health practitioners are trusted members of their communities who have an important role in recognising and responding to family, domestic and sexual violence.

Ahpra, National Boards and Accreditation Authorities have published a joint statement, outlining our shared commitment to building the capability of the health workforce to recognise and respond to family, domestic and sexual violence (FDSV). We’re strengthening our regulatory frameworks across professional capabilities, codes of conduct and continuing professional development guidelines.

Ahpra and National Boards have also published guidance to help health practitioners meet their professional obligations to recognise and respond appropriately to FDSV under the current codes of conduct.

These publications form part of Ahpra and the National Boards’ significant program of work to respond to FDSV, in support of the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032. 

Please read the media release, joint statement, and guidance for practitioners on the Ahpra website.

ATMS encourages members to take the time to review these important resources and consider how the guidance may support their professional practice.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to providing safe, ethical and high-quality care to the communities you serve.