Qualified privilege has been approved for Australian Peer Review Groups (PRG) under the Commonwealth Qualified Privilege Scheme.

The Australian Department of Health, Disability and Ageing has confirmed approval of the RANZCP’s application, restoring legislative protection for confidential peer review discussions held within registered PRGs.

What this means:

PRGs in Australia are once again covered by qualified privilege, supporting open, frank and reflective discussions in a safe learning environment.

Information shared within PRG meetings that identifies individuals is protected from disclosure outside the group.

We sincerely thank all PRG coordinators and members for their patience while the application was under consideration, and for continuing to uphold strong confidentiality practices during the interim period.

The College appreciates the Department’s support in recognising the importance of PRGs as a cornerstone of high quality clinical practice and continuing professional development.

If you have questions about qualified privilege or its application to your Peer Review Group, please contact cpdhelp@ranzcp.org.