The APS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and Psychology Interest group is concerned with promoting best psychological practice for working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The Interest Group recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as Australia's First Peoples.

History of the Interest Group

The APS has been involved in Aboriginal and Torres  Strait Islander issues since the 1960s, when a Queensland group became active with submissions to government on secondary education and child welfare.  The original Group for Aboriginal Issues, Aboriginal People and Psychology was established primarily as a way of assisting Indigenous members to the Society to network and promote discussion of social issues with non-Indigenous members. The APS Interest Group re-formed in 1992.

Terms of Reference

The Terms of Reference of the Interest Group are:

• promoting the psychological study and advocacy of issues related to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples;
• improving relationships between psychologists and the Australian Indigenous community;
• providing advice to psychologists working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities;
• the development of ethical guidelines for the provision of psychological services; and
• conducting research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
  
  

The Australian Psychological Society (APS) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and Psychology Interest Group respectfully acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which our members live and work. Together with the wider APS,  the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and Psychology Interest Group  is committed to working in partnership with Indigenous psychologists and communities to meet the social and emotional wellbeing and mental health needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.