Speak Out June 2021

Association NEWS

Evidence-Based Practice for Speech Pathology in Australia (Revised) Now a core association document

In 2010, the Association released its position statement Evidence-Based Practice in Speech Pathology in acknowledgement of the critical role evidence-based practice (EBP) has in informing the work of speech pathologists in Australia. The position statement has now been framed as a core Association document to reflect the Association’s position that the incorporation of the best available evidence into practice is not optional, and must be considered in line with the Association’s Professional Standards and Code of Ethics . The Evidence-Based Practice for Speech Pathology in Australia (2021) states that responsibility for EBP is shared, requiring the successful interplay and contributions of the Association and its members, universities, speech pathology students and workplaces.

Specifically:

• Speech Pathology Australia has a responsibility to promote and support evidence-based practice. • Speech pathologists have a responsibility to engage in evidence-based practice. • Speech pathology clinicians and researchers have a responsibility to contribute to building the evidence-base. • Universities have a responsibility to promote knowledge of evidence-based practice. • Workplaces have a responsibility to support evidence-based practice.

The EBP core document can be found at: www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au/EBPAust

Expressions of interest Professional Standards Advisory Committee members

The Association is seeking expressions of interest from members who are interested in nominating to be a part of the Professional Standards Advisory Committee (PSAC). The PSAC is an advisory committee to the Board of Directors of Speech Pathology Australia, providing expert advice to the Board and CEO on the quality, maintenance and monitoring of professional standards functions. The PSAC have direct links to the Professional Standards business unit at SPA, and oversee to ensure professional standards functions are provided in an efficient, effective, equitable, transparent and accountable manner and to ensure ongoing quality improvement is in place that meets best-practice. The PSAC comprises six appointed committee members who have broad experience at a senior advisory level and demonstrated high-level problem-

solving skills. The PSAC meet four to six times per calendar year or as required, and meetings take place online or face to face as determined by the Chair. The Terms of Reference for the PSAC can be viewed at www.speechpathologyaustralia > About Us > News If you are interested in nominating to join the PSAC, please provide a copy of your resume and a 300-500 word summary detailing your knowledge, experience and how you address the essential criteria to Stephanie Ashworth, Administration Assistant via sashworth@ speechpathologyaustralia.org.au by 5pm EST on Friday 9 July, 2021 Any queries regarding joining the PSAC may be addressed to Stacey Baldac, Manager Professional Standards via sbaldac@speechpathologyaustralia.

11

June 2021 | Speak Out