Competency-based Occupational Standards for Speech Pathologists

Entry Level - Revised 2011

In this document we set out the competency-based occupational standards (CBOS) – the minimum skills, knowledge base and professional standards – required for entry-level practice in speech pathology in Australia. The CBOS document was initially developed in 1994 and has been revised twice, in 2001 and 2011. Revisions reflect changes in scope of practice, work context and professional terminology.

The purpose of competency-based occupational standards

The main purpose of these occupational standards is to define the minimum skill level and areas of competence the public has a right to expect of an entry-level speech pathologist.They also:

• inform candidates for entry to the profession (both Australian and overseas) of the standards and range of competencies that they must achieve prior to recognition as a member of the profession
  
• inform and guide the assessment and re-education of those wishing to re-enter the profession
• inform the profession of areas relevant for professional development
• inform the institutions responsible for the education of speech pathologists of the competency demanded of an entry-level speech pathologist in Australia
• inform entry-level speech pathologists and employers of the range and standard of independent practice they can expect of an entry-level speech pathologist in Australia
• inform government and policy makers of the range and standard of practice of an entry-level speech pathologist in Australia.

Competency-based Occupational Standards for Speech Pathologists
Entry Level - Revised 2011