Code of Conduct

The Australian national healthcare practitioner Code of Conduct sets standards for non-registered healthcare providers, who are not regulated under the national scheme by Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). It also applies to registered practitioners operating outside their area of registration, for example a physiotherapist providing reiki therapy. Any breach of this code by a healthcare professional may be grounds for a complaint to, or investigation by, the Health Complaints Commission (HCC).

In summary, the Australian national healthcare practitioner Code of Conduct says that practitioners must:

  • Provide services in a safe and ethical manner.
  • Obtain consent from their clients before performing any therapy.
  • Conduct themselves ethically and appropriately when giving treatment advice.
  • Report concerns about treatment or care provided by other health care workers.
  • Take appropriate action in response to adverse events.
  • Adopt standard precautions for infection control.
  • Practice safely if diagnosed with infectious medical conditions.
  • Not make claims to cure certain serious illnesses.
  • Not misinform their clients.
  • Not practice under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Not financially exploit clients.
  • Not engage in sexual misconduct.
  • Comply with relevant privacy laws.
  • Keep appropriate patient records.
  • Be covered by appropriate professional indemnity and public liability insurance.
  • Display information about how patients might make a complaint.

The CMA places significant emphasis on ensuring that practitioner members are fully informed about their ethical and legal responsibilities. This commitment is foundational to fostering professional integrity. Practitioner members should be well-versed in the full text of Federal and relevant State Codes, as well as the CMA's Code of Ethics and By-Laws, to fully understand and uphold their responsibilities.

Compliance with the CMA Code of Ethics and By-Laws should not impose additional burdens on practitioners already operating safely and ethically. Instead, the Code serves as a framework for addressing those who fail to meet professional standards.

If the CMA receives a complaint about a member, we may initiate an investigation. During this process, the CMA reserves the right to issue an interim order restricting the practitioner from delivering certain services, in whole or in part, if deemed necessary. Following a thorough investigation, a final prohibition order may be issued if warranted.

In cases where a practitioner’s actions present serious risks to public health, safety, or welfare, the CMA may also issue a public warning statement to inform and protect the community