Preparing for the Updated Core Competencies: A Guide for Provisional Psychologists

Hello, provisional psychologists!

If you're on track to achieve general registration after December 1, 2025, you've probably heard about the upcoming updates to the Professional Competencies for Psychologists. These changes might feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—we are here to reassure, inform, and guide you through this transition. Let’s break it down together.

Why Are the Competencies Changing?

The Psychology Board of Australia has updated these competencies to ensure they remain relevant and effective in today’s dynamic psychology landscape. They aim to:

1. Strengthen professional reflection and self-care (new Competency 3).

2. Enhance cultural sensitivity and diversity awareness (Competency 7).

3. Emphasise culturally safe care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (Competency 8).

4. Increase focus on digital competency as technology continues to evolve.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re already navigating the path to registration, the changes may feel like a curveball. But here’s the good news: you have time to prepare, and there are plenty of resources to support you. Let’s break it down by where you might be in your journey:

1. You Plan to Apply for General Registration Before December 1, 2025

• You’ll continue to be assessed under the current competencies.

• No need to adjust your current plans or processes.

2. You Plan to Apply After December 1, 2025

• You’ll need to meet the updated competencies.

• Work closely with your supervisor to:

  • Conduct a self-assessment using the Board’s template.

  • Identify areas requiring professional development.

3. You’re Starting Your Training or Internship After December 1, 2025

• Your training, supervised practice, and National Psychology Exam will all align with the updated competencies.

Key Competency Updates to Watch For

Here’s a snapshot of the main changes:

1. Competency 3: Professional Reflection and Self-Care

   • Greater emphasis on deliberate practice and maintaining sustainable, professional well-being.

2. Competency 7: Sensitivity to Diversity

   • A broader focus on working respectfully with diverse clients and colleagues.

3. Competency 8: Cultural Safety for First Nations Peoples

   • Aligns with the National Scheme’s commitment to equity in health outcomes.

4. Digital Competence

   • A new focus on integrating digital tools and technologies into your practice.

How Can You Prepare?

Here are five practical steps to help you transition smoothly:

1. Familiarise Yourself with the Changes

   • Download the advance copy of the updated competencies from the Psychology Board of Australia’s website. https://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/Standards-and-Guidelines/Professional-practice-standards/Professional-competencies-for-psychology.aspx 

   • Review the fact sheets on key changes (Competencies 3, 7, 8, and digital competence).

2. Self-Assess Your Competencies

   • Use the self-assessment template provided by the Board.

   • Identify gaps and create a targeted learning plan.

3. Engage in Professional Development

   • Focus on workshops, webinars, or courses that address the new competencies.

   • Consider training in cultural safety and digital tools.

4. Communicate with Your Supervisor

   • Discuss how the updated competencies align with your supervised practice.

   • Seek guidance on areas needing improvement.

5. Plan Ahead for the National Psychology Exam

   • If you’re sitting the exam in 2026 or later, integrate the updated competencies into your study plan.

A Reassuring Note

Change can be daunting, but it’s also an opportunity to grow and strengthen your skills. These updates are designed to help you become a more reflective, culturally aware, and technologically competent psychologist—skills that will serve you and your clients well throughout your career.

Remember, you’re not alone. Lean on your supervisors, peers, and professional networks for support. And don’t hesitate to reach out to the Psychology Board of Australia for clarification or resources.

Final Thoughts

As you prepare for these updates, keep in mind that the goal is to help you practice safely, ethically, and effectively in a rapidly evolving world. Take this transition one step at a time, and celebrate your progress along the way.

You’ve got this!