Specialist recognition
Clinical Psychology needs to be clearly identifiable to the public as a specialty in mental health. ACPA aims to promote the identification of clinical psychologists with accredited post-graduate qualifications and ongoing learning, to enable them to be distinguished in their specialist capacities by the public and other professionals, from others offering mental health services. ACPA strongly supports and promotes the granting of specialist title to clinical psychologists with accredited post-graduate qualifications.

Education
ACPA aims to provide and promote ongoing training and learning of best practices within the speciality of clinical psychology and thereby to enhance services provided to the public.

Representation
ACPA aims to advocate to government, professional and academic organisations, other health professions, and the public about standards of mental health practice. ACPA also aims to promote to these bodies the benefits provided by the expertise of clinical psychologists.

International Standards
ACPA recognises the need for clinical psychology in Australia to meet international standards. It is anticipated that, in the context of standards being raised within the profession, in the future ACPA will raise the entry level of membership for new graduates to doctoral level. ACPA intends to advocate for its members with international bodies.