Applying for membership

To join the APS

The APS offers a range of membership grades to cater for the broad range of people involved in the discipline and profession of psychology. Each grade has specific requirements, which are generally based on an applicant’s level of tertiary education in psychology. Applicants must be qualified in, or studying, university courses accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC). Existing members can apply to upgrade as they attain further qualifications.

Membership grades are split into voting and non-voting categories. Voting members may vote in the election of the Board of Directors, the results of which are announced at the annual general meeting, held as part of the annual conference.

For information about accredited courses and study paths, see Studying psychology.

About membership subscription

Membership subscriptions vary depending on the grade and date of application. If you join part way through the year you only pay for your membership subscription from that date onwards. Reduced subscriptions are available to members who are studying full-time.

Grades of membership

Below is a list of membership grades, divided into voting and non-voting membership. Choose a grade for more information, subscription details and application forms:

See also: Information for overseas applicants

Next, fill out and send in the appropriate application form, with supporting documentation, to the APS National Office, PO Box 38, Flinders Lane, Vic 8009.

Once you are a member, you will automatically be allocated to your local Branch or Regional Group, and can also join APS Colleges or Interest Groups, subject to meeting the joining requirements. Find out more about APS Member Groups. 

Upgrading your APS membership

To upgrade your APS membership, you will need to download the relevant application form - see below. Both upgrading members and new applicants use the same application form when applying for APS membership.

Please choose from the grades below for further information and to download the appropriate application form:

• Member
• Associate Member
• Affiliate

Upgrading between 1 June 2011 and 10 February 2012

To maximise your membership savings, first pay your membership subscription for the 2011-12 APS financial year, then upgrade your APS membership.

You will not pay anything at the time of upgrading your membership. If you are eligible for a Graduate Reduction, you will receive the relevant reduction in the 2012-13 APS financial year.

Non-standard route to the grade of Member

Applicants who have not followed the standard route may still be eligible to apply for the grade of Member of the APS. Find out full details at Non-standard route to the grade of Member. 

Reinstatement for ex-members

Ex-members who are seeking to re-join the APS should complete the Membership Reinstatement form (197kb). Please note that if your membership has lapsed for more than 10 years, you will need to reapply for membership using the application form for the relevant grade, and submitting all documentation requested.

Annual subscription

APS membership expires annually on 31 May. If you are a new member and join during the year, pro rata rates are payable. Subscription reminders are sent to all existing members in May each year, with payment due no later than 31 July in order to maintain current membership.

Supplementary Questions form

If your qualifications were obtained from outside Australia, please download a List of Supplementary Questions form, which should be completed and submitted with your membership application.

• List of Supplementary Questions form  (37kb)

A note on supervision

The supervision pathway to full Membership of the APS ceased on 31 December 2001. Supervised psychological practice had to have been completed by 31 December 1999, unless applicants were granted a special exemption up until 31 December 2001. Supervision still forms part of the requirements for registration. View contact details of your registration board.

Any questions? If you have any queries, the Membership team can help on (03) 8662 3300 or 1800 333 497 toll free or email membership@psychology.org.au.