Regulatory Schemes
Regulatory Schemes are used when governments find a need to place aspects of practice under the law. This is usually because the Government has assessed that practice by unqualified or inadequately experienced practitioners in such areas puts the community at a greater risk than the associated constraints on competition.Typically, professional bodies are required to propose a Scheme for Ministerial authorisation. Schemes must comply with principles or frameworks set out in legislation. Usually the professional body administering the Scheme is also given some protection from actions arising from its functions proved they have been conducted in good faith.
Advantages of Regulatory Schemes
Appropriate Regulatory Schemes have positives for the government, profession and community. The community is protected from charlatans. The profession is given recognition for its capacity to set competency standards and conduct objective assessments. Government involvement reinforces the profession's ability to self-regulate. Government agencies can also take action against persons who attempt to operate outside the regulated framework defined by the Scheme.