11 July 2024
This new initiative aims to refine and enhance the program accreditation standards to ensure they remain relevant and effective in preparing graduates for entry into the profession as a counsellor.
Following a thorough selection process, the Program accreditation standards review steering committee (Steering Committee) has chosen a diverse and highly skilled group of professionals to provide their insights and expertise. The Reference Group consists of experienced educators, practitioners and supervisors from various backgrounds, ensuring a comprehensive perspective in the review process.
The newly appointed members are:
- Dr Judith Ayre, Head of School, Counselling and Psychotherapy and Arts Therapy, Ikon Institute of Australia, private practitioner and clinical supervisor
- Mr Mike Burns, Trainer, Lifeline and private practitioner
- Ms Milli Blenkin, Head of Discipline, Senior Lecturer, Discipline of Counselling, University of Canberra
- Mr Simon Hinch, Lecturer, Course Coordinator, Queensland University of Technology and private practitioner
- Dr Suzy Miller, Course Director, Academic Placement Convenor and Lecturer, Swinburne University of Technology and private practitioner
- Mrs Noni Potter, Head of Undergraduate Counselling, Tabor College, private practitioner and clinical supervisor
- Dr Carol Sandiford, Course Director and Lecturer, Deakin University and private practitioner
- Mr Doug Scott, Senior Lecturer and Professional Practice Coordinator, Monash University
- Ms Lilia Szarski, Clinical Supervisor and Educator, Relationships Australia Victoria, private practitioner and clinical supervisor
The Reference Group will play an essential role in reviewing the program accreditation standards and professional competencies, ensuring they reflect current best practices and meet the needs of the profession. Their feedback and guidance will be considered by the Working Party and we anticipate no more than three meetings for the Reference Group due to their targeted consultation. The group's remit will be to provide feedback on the program accreditation standards, ensuring they are robust and relevant for producing graduates ready for entry into the profession.
For more information about the review process and to stay informed about public consultation phases, please visit our dedicated Program accreditation standards review webpage. Stay updated with the latest developments through upcoming editions of eNews.
The Steering Committee thanks every applicant who expressed interest in contributing to this important work. Your commitment to PACFA’s mission and the review process is much appreciated.