Accreditation Celebrates Progress, Collaboration and Commitment to High Standards
Following the implementation of the Accreditation standards for counselling programs (Accreditation standards) on 1 January 2025, the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) is pleased to share an update on the continued implementation of the revised accreditation framework and the significant progress achieved to date.
Throughout 2026, accreditation site visits have been undertaken at Tabor College Incorporated, the University of Queensland, Deakin University and Ikon Institute of Australia, with reviews of Southern Cross University and Avondale University still to come.
The accreditation reviews undertaken to date represent an important milestone in PACFA’s transition to the revised accreditation framework. Feedback has consistently recognised the professionalism, transparency and collegiality of the accreditation process together with its appropriately rigorous approach to quality assurance.
This is an encouraging reflection of the shared commitment across PACFA, education providers and assessment teams to maintaining high standards in counselling education and training. The accreditation process provides an important opportunity to recognise the strengths of each program, confirm that the arrangements described through the review are reflected in practice and identify opportunities for continued quality improvement.
PACFA sincerely thanks the participating education providers for the considerable time, preparation and thoughtful engagement they have contributed throughout the accreditation process. Their openness, responsiveness and commitment to continuous improvement have been instrumental in supporting the effective implementation of the revised accreditation framework.
We also extend our appreciation to the members of PACFA’s assessment teams. Their expertise, professional insight, impartiality and considered approach are essential to the integrity and quality of the accreditation process. Their contribution supports a robust, transparent and nationally consistent framework that promotes excellence in education, strengthens graduate preparation for contemporary practice and contributes to public safety.
Alongside accreditation reviews, PACFA continues to work with providers of accredited programs through its ongoing monitoring and quality assurance processes. This supports continued compliance with the Accreditation standards and a shared commitment to continuous quality improvement.
Education providers intending to seek initial accreditation are encouraged to contact the Education team and submit a Notice of Intent as early as possible. Early engagement assists PACFA in planning the accreditation work program and coordinating site visit schedules to support an efficient and timely process.
PACFA is also pleased to announce that Digital Badges for accredited programs will soon be introduced. The badges will help education providers clearly communicate and promote the PACFA accreditation status of their program across their own provider websites, publications and other communications. Further information will be shared with providers of accredited programs in the coming month.
PACFA looks forward to continuing collaboration with education providers, assessment teams and the wider profession as we build on the progress achieved and advance high quality counselling education and training across Australia.
For any questions relating to accreditation matters, please contact the Education Team via [email protected].