NSQHS Standards (third edition): Have your say on the future of Australia’s healthcare standards

The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (the Commission) has commenced public consultation on the initial draft of the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards (third edition). 

The NSQHS Standards underpin accreditation across Australia’s health system and provide a nationally consistent framework for improving the safety and quality of care. The Commission is inviting feedback from health professionals, health service organisations, consumers and other stakeholders to help shape the next edition of the Standards before they are finalised. 

About the draft Standards 

The Commission has advised that the draft Standards reflect a strengthened focus on patient’s experience of care, while reinforcing expectations for clinical governance, person-centred practice and safe clinical systems across services. They also seek to embed culturally safe, respectful and inclusive care, clear communication and shared decision making. 

Consultation timeline 

The public consultation is open from Monday 20 July to Friday 25 September 2026. 

Following consultation, the Commission has advised that feedback will inform the next version of the Standards, with: 

• 2027 – Piloting of the third edition with health services 

• 2028 – Final release of the third edition 

• 2030 – Expected commencement of assessments against the third edition 

How to participate 

Health professionals and consumers can participate in the consultation by: 

• Completing an online survey 

• Making a written submission 

• Attending an online information forum 

To learn more, review the draft Standards or participate in the consultation, visit the NSQHS Standards (third edition) consultation page on the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website. 

You can also subscribe to the Commission’s updates to stay informed throughout the development of the third edition of the NSQHS Standards. 

We’re here to help 

While this consultation is being led by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care, your QIP Client Relationship Officer can help you access the Commission’s consultation resources if required. 

We encourage you to take this opportunity to have your say and contribute to the future of Australia’s healthcare standards. 

This article has been prepared by QIP to raise awareness of the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care’s public consultation on the draft third edition of the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards. All consultation materials and feedback mechanisms are managed by the Commission.