Pathology accreditation standards

The pathology accreditation standards used in Australia protect the public from harm and ensure consistency in pathology practice.

Last updated
Print

About the Standards

The National Pathology Accreditation Advisory Council (NPAAC) is responsible for developing and maintaining the accreditation standards for Australian pathology laboratories. The standards are categorised into four main tiers as follows:

Update on the Requirements for cervical screening Standard

Following advice from the Department of Health and Aged Care (the Department), assessment to the Requirements for cervical screening will not commence on 1 August 2024, as previously advised. This follows the identification of a number of matters relating to the Standard that require further consideration with the pathology sector before it comes into effect. 

A revised commencement date is being considered and laboratories will be advised in advance of a revised start date. 

What does this mean for Australian pathology laboratories?

All accredited pathology laboratories are required to continue complying with: 

If you have any enquiries, please contact pathology@safetyandquality.gov.au 

Past consultations

Consultation on the draft Requirements for medical pathology services (RMPS)

Closed 26 April 2024

The Commission, in collaboration with the National Pathology Accreditation Advisory Council (NPAAC), is undertaking a public consultation to revise the Requirements for medical pathology services (RMPS). 

Stage Two of the consultation will be focus group, to be held in July 2024. 

More information

  • National Pathology Accreditation Scheme

    The National Pathology Accreditation (NPA) Scheme provides for the Australia-wide coordination of accreditation processes for pathology laboratories in Australia.

  • Resources for the pathology standards

    Resources that support clinicians, service providers and accrediting agencies by providing guidance on the requirements for pathology laboratories to be accredited

  • National Pathology Accreditation Advisory Council

    The National Pathology Accreditation Advisory Council (NPAAC) is responsible for developing and maintaining the accreditation standards for pathology laboratories in Australia.

  • Safety and Quality Advice Centre

    The Advice Centre provides support for pathology services, assessors and accrediting agencies on pathology accreditation standards implementation.

Subscribe to pathology communications

Sign up now to receive news and updates on the pathology standards, including drafts for consultation.

Find more in our resource library
Accreditation
Pathology
Back to top