About Professions Australia

Definition of a Profession

"A profession is a disciplined group of individuals who adhere to

ethical standards and who hold themselves out as, and are accepted by

the public as possessing special knowledge and skills in a widely

recognised body of learning derived from research, education and

training at a high level, and who are prepared to apply this

knowledge and exercise these skills in the interest of others.

It is inherent in the definition of a profession that a code of ethics

governs the activities of each profession. Such codes require behaviour

and practice beyond the personal moral obligations of an individual.

They define and demand high standards of behaviour in respect to the

services provided to the public and in dealing with professional colleagues.

Further, these codes are enforced by the profession and are acknowledged

and accepted by the community."

Adopted, Annual General Meeting, 26 May 1997