The Naturopaths and Herbalists Association of Australia (NHAA) Dispute Resolution Policy (effective April 27, 2026) establishes a formal framework for managing complaints regarding the conduct of current NHAA members.
The NHAA manages complaints based on the following principles:
- Fairness and Independence: Impartial treatment without bias or undue influence.
- Confidentiality: Information is restricted to a need-to-know basis.
- Proportionality and Transparency: Responses are scaled to the seriousness of the issue, and processes are well-documented.
- Timeliness: Matters are addressed promptly.
The complaint process is as follows:
- Initiation: Complainants are encouraged to attempt direct resolution with the practitioner first. If unsuccessful, formal complaints must be submitted in writing using the NHAA Complaint Form, including signature, clear details, and evidence.
- Exclusions: The NHAA will not consider anonymous, frivolous, malicious, or incomplete complaints, nor those involving contractual disputes or matters currently before other regulatory bodies (e.g., AHPRA, police).
- Assessment: Upon receipt, the NHAA conducts a jurisdictional assessment and may triage accepted complaints based on risk and urgency.
- Resolution: The respondent is given an opportunity to respond, and the committee reviews all evidence, potentially seeking expert input.
Outcomes are based on the nature of the conduct and may include:
- No further action or written warnings/directives.
- Mandatory education, supervision, or practice restrictions.
- Suspension or expulsion from the association.
Conflicts of interest among committee members must be declared and handled by replacing the conflicted individual. Records are maintained securely in accordance with privacy obligations.