This review looks behind the inherent complexity of health practitioner regulation, to identify areas of unproductive and unnecessary complexity, and propose reforms that will enable the National Scheme to its full potential. The ultimate objective is to ensure that the National Scheme remains ‘fit for purpose’ and meets community expectations.  

The terms of reference for the Review require consideration of changes to:

• Enable the National Scheme to grow and adapt to meet the needs of the Australian health system, maintaining alignment with workforce strategy and supporting high standards of care.
• Ensure role clarity and accountability across all functions of the National Scheme.
• Identify and address significant risks to public health and safety quickly, effectively, and consistently.
• Streamline decision making structures and processes.
• Improve customer centrism and complaints handling processes. 

The purpose of this Consultation Paper is to present the evidence collected to date, to inform and support stakeholder input on the issues and potential reform directions. This is intended to provide structure and focus for written submissions and for the Policy Design Forums with stakeholders that will occur over coming months. Through this Consultation Paper the department is working towards a deeper consideration of reform options.