1. Policy Statement

[School Name] recognises the importance of supporting the emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing of students. This policy establishes the framework for obtaining informed consent for counselling services provided to students from Kindergarten to Year 12. It ensures ethical practice, confidentiality, and compliance with professional and legal obligations, while prioritising the welfare and rights of the child.

2. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:
– Define the process for obtaining informed consent for counselling.
– Clarify the respective roles and responsibilities of students, parents/guardians, counsellors, and school staff.
– Ensure counselling services are delivered in line with ethical standards, privacy requirements, and child protection legislation.

3. Scope

This policy applies to:
– All students enrolled at [School Name] (K–12).
– All staff referring students to the school’s counselling or wellbeing services.
– All counsellors, psychologists, or wellbeing staff providing counselling within the school.

4. Guiding Principles

• Informed and Voluntary Participation:
  Counselling participation must be informed, voluntary, and based on a clear understanding of the counselling process, including its purpose, benefits, and limitations.
• Best Interests of the Child:
  All decisions are guided by the child’s best interests, wellbeing, and developmental needs.
• Student Capacity and Autonomy:
  Primary (K–6): Written parental or guardian consent is required before counselling commences.
  Secondary (7–12): Students may provide informed consent independently where, in the counsellor’s professional judgement, they possess sufficient maturity and understanding (“Gillick competence”).
  Parental involvement is encouraged when appropriate and consistent with the student’s best interests.
• Confidentiality:
  Information shared in counselling is confidential and will not be disclosed without consent, except where there is a risk of harm, legal obligation, or child protection requirement. Limits of confidentiality are explained to all parties prior to counselling.
• Ethical and Legal Compliance:
  Counselling services operate in accordance with ACA, PACFA, and APS Codes of Ethics and relevant legislation.

5. Procedures

5.1 Referral and Access:
– Students may self-refer or be referred by parents, guardians, or staff.
– The counsellor conducts an initial assessment to determine appropriateness and capacity for informed consent.

5.2 Obtaining Consent:
– Primary (K–6): Written parental/guardian consent is required.
– Secondary (7–12): The counsellor assesses the student’s capacity to consent independently.
– Parental notification is determined case-by-case, balancing confidentiality and safety.

5.3 Documentation:
– Consent forms must be completed prior to or during the first session.
– All records are maintained securely.

5.4 Withdrawal of Consent:
– Consent may be withdrawn at any time.
– The counsellor will discuss implications and ensure continuity of care.

5.5 Review and Communication:
– Consent is reviewed periodically.
– Policy information is made accessible to the school community.

6. Responsibilities

7. Related Documents

– Counselling Consent Form (Parent/Guardian)
– Student Counselling Consent Form (Secondary)
– School Privacy and Confidentiality Policy
– Child Protection and Mandatory Reporting Policy
– National Principles for Child Safe Organisations

8. References

– Australian Counselling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics and Practice
– PACFA Code of Ethics (2023)
– APS Code of Ethics (2018)
– Privacy Act 1988 (Cth)
– Relevant State/Territory child protection and education legislation

9. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed every two years or earlier if required by legislative or procedural change.