Code of Ethics Review

The RANZCP is currently reviewing its Code of Ethics, overseen by the Committee for Professional Practice. A dedicated Steering Group has been formed to manage this review and update the Code. Notably, this is the first time individuals with Lived Experience are being included in the process, marking a significant shift towards a more contemporary approach. The aim is to create a revised Code that emphasises relational ethics, focusing on the connections between professionals, those they serve, and the wider community.

The review process

The Code of Ethics is governed by the Committee for Professional Practice and the review is being led by the Code of Ethics Steering Group.

The Co-chairs include:

• Prof Richard Harvey
• Dr. Izaak Lim

With support from:

• Dr. Emma Crampin (Member Engagement Committee) Representative
• Dr. Ava Carter (Board Member, Trainee) Representative
• Mr. Sam Farr (Lived Experience, Committee for Professional Practice) Representative

The review will happen in these phases

• Aotearoa New Zealand Symposium and Panel Discussion - 18 September 2024
• Consultation round 1 - 6 December Online Workshop    
• Draft                                  
• Consultation round 2 - Member review of draft revised Code of Ethics 
• Launch - Congress 2025                            
• Implementation - Dunedin Aotearoa New Zealand Congress 2025

List of people and groups we'll be consulting with

This review will involve broad consultation with various committees and groups, including:

• Te Kaunihera
• Tu Te Akaaka Roa
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mental Health Committee
• Bi-national Committee for Trainees
• Committee of Evidence Based Practice
• Committee of Professional Practice
• Practice, Policy and Partnerships Committee

These committees and members will provide valuable insights and perspectives throughout the review process.

Related documents we'll be considering

Ethical Codes

• AMA Code of Ethics
• Australian Psychological Society (APS) APS Code of Ethics (2020)
• New Zealand Psychological Society (NZPsS) Code of Ethics NZPsS Code of Ethics (2020)
• WPA Declaration of Madrid on Ethical Standards for Psychiatric Practice (2019) WPA Ethical Standards
• College of Psychiatrists of Ireland Professional Ethics for Psychiatrists (irishpsychiatry.ie) (2019)
• American Psychiatric Association (APA) Principles of Medical Ethics with Annotations Especially Applicable to Psychiatry (2020)
• National Association of Social Workers (NASW) - USA Code of Ethics (Revised 2018)

RANZCP Statements

Mental Health Legislation

• Mental Health Legislation and Psychiatrists: Putting the Principles into Practice | RANZCP

Cultural Acknowledgment

• Acknowledging the Stolen Generations | RANZCP
• Recognising the Significance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi | RANZCP

Whānau and Cultural Safety

•  Whānau Ora | RANZCP
•  Cultural Safety | RANZCP

Decolonisation

•  The Waitangi Tribunal’s WAI 2575 Report: Implications for Decolonizing Health Systems

Impact of Technology

• The Impact of Media and Digital Technology on Children and Adolescents | RANZCP

How to get involved

To provide input on the Code of Ethics the Consultation Hub is being used to gather feedback and inform the agenda and review themes by the Steering Group. Login required. 

Give feedback

If you have any queries, please email [email protected].