Complaints
Last updated: 30 June 2010
background to the ASA Complaints Handling Process
The Australian Sonographers Association Limited (‘ASA’) is the peak body and leading voice for sonographers. Financial Ordinary and Student members (‘members’) of the ASA voluntarily agree to meet appropriate standards under a program of self-regulation for the profession which was introduced on 1 July 2010. An important feature of this self-regulation is its independence from the general governance arrangements of the Association. To the greatest extent possible, there is a separation of powers between the functional components of the self-regulation program and the ASA’s operations. This independence aims to ensure fairness, confidentiality and impartiality as well as minimise potential conflicts of interest. The ASA’s Disciplinary Committee is approved by the ASA Board. It includes experienced sonographers as well as consumer and legal representatives. The Committee, which operates independently, meets as required to respond to complaints about ASA financial members.
about ASA Certified Sonographers and ASA Certified Student Sonographers
The expected standards of ASA members, who are recognised as ASA Certified Sonographers or ASA Certified Student Sonographers, is outlined in the ASA's Code of Professional Conduct. The Code of Professional Conduct seeks to ensure that members provide professional, high-quality sonographic services.
lodging a complaint
The ASA has a formal process to receive and investigate complaints about its members, and to take disciplinary action where appropriate. This complaints handling process is an important part of ensuring that professional standards are upheld by all members. Anybody is entitled to make a complaint about the conduct of a sonographer. The complaint will normally be made by the person to whom the alleged misconduct has been directed. However if the person who has a grievance against the sonographer is unable to make the complaint themselves, a complaint can be made by someone authorised to act on their behalf. Health professionals and colleagues of sonographers can also make complaints.
Further information is available in Complaints Handling and Disciplinary Process: Information for Complainants and Respondents or by contacting the ASA National Office.
to lodge a complaint
- Submit a request via email for further information
- Download a Complaint Form
- Submit a Complaint online
appointing the Disciplinary Committee
The ASA encourages Expressions of Interest from experienced sonographers who would like to be considered for a position on the Disciplinary Committee or a pool from which Appeals Panels will be formed as necessary. If you are interested, please review the Terms of Reference for the Committee. Your Expression of Interest should include:
- A covering letter stating reasons for your application
- A brief CV
- An indication of which group (Disciplinary Committee or Appeals Panel pool) you wish to be considered for.
need to know more?
For further information please contact Elaine Trevaskis, ASA CEO via:
P: 03 9585 2996
E: elaine.trevaskis@a-s-a.com.au