THE Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) and National Boards have announced changes to the way sexual misconduct is reported on the public register of practitioners, commencing early next year.
Practitioners who have a tribunal finding of professional misconduct involving sexual misconduct will have this information permanently published on the register.
Included on the register will be information stating that the practitioner engaged in professional misconduct on the basis of sexual misconduct, a record of any sanctions imposed, and the tribunal decision (if published).
The change is retrospective and will apply from the start of regulation for the profession.
In deciding to implement this change, health ministers sought to protect public safety and ensure people are able to make an informed choice when selecting a health practitioner.
Ahpra and the National Boards are finalising guidance on sexual misconduct and the National Law following extensive consultation and will release it as soon as possible.
"This change will be distressing for some practitioners," Ahpra noted.
"If you are contacted by Ahpra about additional information being put on your register entry, we encourage you to contact your insurer, professional association or legal adviser for guidance and support."
Aphra pointed pharmacists to Pharmacists' Support Service HERE, or phone 1300 244 910 from 8am to 11pm AEDT.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 17 Dec 25
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