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VMHPAA welcomes Final National Standards for Counsellors & Psychotherapists: major wins for vocational counsellors and a clear path into licensing design

Updated: Oct 17

MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate Release

15 October 2025


VMHPAA welcomes Final National Standards for Counsellors & Psychotherapists: major wins for vocational counsellors and a clear path into licensing design
VMHPAA welcomes Final National Standards for Counsellors & Psychotherapists: major wins for vocational counsellors and a clear path into licensing design

The Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) welcomes the Federal Government’s Final National Standards for Counsellors and Psychotherapists (October 2025), noting significant progress toward fair recognition of vocational pathways and proportionate quality assurance across the workforce. 


Key wins for VMHPAA members


  • Formal recognition of Diploma/Advanced Diploma counsellors. The Standards now explicitly recognise AQF Level 5–6 qualifications as legitimate entry pathways, a major turnaround from earlier drafts. 

  • Pathway to private practice reinstated. Diploma-qualified counsellors (Career Stage 1) are again acknowledged as practising professionals, protecting access to services in community, rural and regional settings. 

  • Licensing framework: a seat at the table. Government will design a national licensing framework next, creating a clear opportunity for VMHPAA to participate in implementation. VMHPAA will formally seek inclusion in the advisory group shaping the model. 

  • Fair, tiered career stages. The final Standards mirror the tiered approach proposed by VMHPAA - Stage 1 (AQF 5–6), Stage 2 (AQF 7–9 under 750 client hours), Stage 3 (AQF 7–9 over 750 hours) - providing transparent progression. 

  • Diversity, inclusion & cultural safety mandated. A dedicated domain affirms culturally responsive, community-based counselling as a cornerstone of care. 

  • Shift from “discipline” to “quality assurance.” Emphasis moves toward support, education and remediation over punitive measures. 


What comes next


  • Grandfathering / transitional recognition. VMHPAA will advocate for fair grandparenting so current Diploma-qualified counsellors are supported to transition, if required. 

  • Direct role in licensing design. VMHPAA will seek inclusion in the next implementation phase so vocational voices shape the licensing system. 

  • Supervision recognition. VMHPAA will continue pressing for experienced vocational Diploma and Advanced Diploma practitioners to be recognised for supervisory competence. 

  • Member support. Ongoing resources and advocacy updates will help members navigate the Standards; therefore our dialogue with the Department will remain open. 

“This outcome shows the strength of a unified voice. While we still have work ahead, it’s clear that government and the department have listened — and that our advocacy has made a real impact. Together, we’ve secured recognition of the vocational pathway and reopened the door to practice rights for Diploma-qualified counsellors. Our next challenge is to ensure implementation stays inclusive, transparent, and fair for all practitioners.”  (Chair, VMHPAA – Shane Warren)

Member Q&A


VMHPAA CEO Philip Armstrong, with Chair Shane Warren will join Dr Brooklyn Storme for a live Q&A next week to unpack the Standards, implications for vocational practitioners, and next steps. 


Media Contact:

Shane Warren, Chair

Susan Sandy, Secretary

Philip Armstrong, CEO

VMHPAA



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