The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) has consulted on new powers under the National Law to issue public statements/warnings.
The change to the National Law will give Ahpra and the National Boards a new power to issue public statements to warn the public about serious risks posed by people, including registered practitioners, who are the subject of investigations or disciplinary proceedings.
ACRRM's feedback reiterates concerns that recent amendments to the National Law have created a situation where priority is given to public confidence and trust over the rights of health practitioners.
It is an essential feature of the rule of law that legislation be clear and be able to be understood by those who are bound by it. The College has previously raised concerns that in several places the legislation is too broad in scope, lacking in the necessary detail and prone to “catch-all” phraseology.
In developing guidance on how the new power to issue public statements (warnings) will be used in practice, Ahpra has the opportunity to ensure the necessary safeguards are put in place to ensure powers are used lawfully and appropriately