Changes aim to streamline the process, allowing overseas-qualified candidates to work under supervision and offering a fast-track option for accredited Australian professionals.

Audiology Australia (AudA) has enhanced its application pathways for qualified audiologists to become AudA Accredited Audiologists in Australia. The changes are designed to address workforce needs and create clearer routes to accreditation for both overseas-qualified and Australian audiologists.

Among the updates, overseas-qualified audiologists applying for accreditation can now work under supervision while preparing for their examination. Additionally, accredited Australian audiologists with 12 months of experience who are not AudA members will have a fast-track option for having their equivalency recognized.

“This will allow accredited Australian audiologists to more easily join AudA if they wish, as well as provide overseas-qualified audiologists a clearer, more structured pathway to accreditation, enabling them to integrate into the Australian workforce with guidance, supervision, and access to tailored resources,” says Leanne Emerson, CEO of AudA, in a release. Emerson also notes that all applications will continue to be assessed to ensure they meet the required standards for practice in Australia.

Updates for Overseas-Qualified Candidates

A key change allows overseas-qualified audiologists who progress to Stage 2 of their application to work under supervision while preparing for their exam. This enables applicants to gain Australian experience and financial support, while also helping employers meet workforce demands.

Other changes for overseas candidates include:

  • Interim Accreditation Step: Overseas-qualified audiologists working as Accredited Audiometrists (QP) in Australia can apply to be recognized as Accredited Limited Scope Audiologists as an interim step. Assessments for this category will begin August 1.
  • Early Membership Access: Successful candidates will now become AudA members at the conclusion of Stage 1, giving them access to membership resources and services earlier in the process.
  • New Candidacy Requirements: Applicants (excluding those from New Zealand) will be required to complete training on the Australian audiology landscape and Cultural Competency Training for working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
  • Recognized Qualifications: AudA has published a list of recognized overseas qualifications to provide applicants with greater clarity on their eligibility for Stage 1.

Pathway for Australian Candidates

For qualified Australian audiologists, a fast-track pathway is now available. Accredited audiologists with at least 12 months of experience may have their accredited equivalency recognized to streamline their application with AudA.

AudA will continue to accredit audiologists until the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme (NRAS) for audiology begins, which is expected by 2030 at the earliest.

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