APS Member Groups

Within a multicultural and multilingual community such as Australia’s, and indeed in many communities around the world, psychology faces a major challenge to demonstrate its relevance, both in its theories and its field application of psychological methods. There is a responsibility to the community but also a major opportunity for Australian psychology in embracing the challenges posed by diversity, to emerge with more universal theories, methods and practices.

There is considerable work to be done in raising awareness in all the endeavours Australian psychology undertakes, including in education (and its export to other countries), in research and in the application of psychology’s methods within communities highly-textured by cultural diversity. The role of the Psychology and Cultures Interest Group is to support this enrichment.

Terms of Reference

To promote professional activities, practice, research and discussion which are sensitive and relevant to the needs of migrant, ethnic, racial and cultural groups, and to the advancement of a peaceful multicultural society

1. To acquire and disseminate knowledge about culture, ethnicity, race, migration, and other cultural issues related to psychology
2. To promote the development of studies related to cultural issues within the discipline of psychology
3. To liaise with other professional groups whose aims are congruent with those of the Interest Group and in accordance with those of The Australian Psychological Society Limited
4. To provide expert advice to The Australian Psychological Society Limited on issues relating to its area of interest when the need arises.