English Language requirements
Many languages other than English are used in Australia. Speech Pathology Australia is keen to increase the number of languages in which competent clinical practice is available, but this does not replace or remove the requirement for competent professional use of English.
Speech pathologists in Australia need to work with English as the vehicle of communication and as the focus of assessment and treatment. Therefore evidence of competent professional use of English is required as part of the Overseas Qualification Competency Assessment process. This is demonstrated through the completion of the Occupational English Test (OET) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
An individual who has sat either the IELTS or OET twice in six months and not achieved the required scores may apply for special consideration if they meet the following criteria:
> Three subtest scores are at the required level, with one subtest score falling between 350 and 400 on the OET, or between 7.5 and 8.0 on the IELTS.
> Believe their performance on the English language test is not representative of English language skill OR was impacted by a significant event (evidence must be provided).
Requests for special consideration must include the following:
1. An explanation of why performance did not meet the required level. For example, this document may provide evidence of an unexpected adverse event that impacted performance on the English language test.
AND
2. Evidence of completion of courses or programs of study that have assessable minimum English requirements. The course or program guide must clearly indicate the level of English competency required.
OR
3. Results from an alternative English test completed within the previous two years. The alternative English test must have a comparable subtest structure and comparison guide to the OET or IELTS.
Please contact the Manager Professional Standards for further information.