National (Ahpra & Optometry Board of Australia)
Ahpra Shared Code of Conduct & Professional Boundaries
Core Principles
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) and the Optometry Board of Australia establish the shared Code of Conduct for registered optometrists. It outlines eleven core principles that protect the public and define professional standards:
- Prioritising Patient Safety & Care: Clinical decisions must always put patient health and safety above commercial targets or sales KPIs.
- Informed Consent: Ensuring patients understand examination procedures, optical options, and treatment risks before proceeding.
- Cultural Safety: Providing respectful, culturally safe care, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
- Professional Boundaries: Maintaining appropriate boundaries, effective communication, and collaborative relationships within healthcare teams.
- Clinical Autonomy & Risk Management: Managing clinical risks, maintaining accurate medical records, and protecting patient privacy.
- Ongoing Professional Development (CPD): Fostering professional competence and ethical standards.
Clinical Autonomy vs Commercial Pressure (Clause 8.10.i)
Under National Law and Ahpra Code of Conduct Clause 8.10.i, registered optometrists must maintain independent clinical judgment. Employers cannot lawfully set sales quotas, performance targets, or business practices that compromise patient safety or clinical standards.
Where to go next
- Ahpra: Shared Code of Conduct (Official Portal)
- Optometry Board of Australia: Codes & Guidelines
- Health Care Complaints Commission (HCCC NSW): Practitioner Rights & Complaints
- Fair Work Ombudsman: Workplace Rights & Legislation
Primary source: Ahpra — Shared Code of Conduct for Registered Health Practitioners