Social Media Policy

Effective Date: 28 April 2026

1. Purpose
This Social Media Policy outlines how Engage Speech Pathology Services uses social media in a professional, ethical, and lawful manner. It ensures compliance with the Code of Ethics and Code of Ethics – Advertising Policy of Speech Pathology Australia, as well as relevant Australian laws and privacy obligations.

2. Scope
This policy applies to all social media activity undertaken in connection with Engage Speech Pathology Services, including but not limited to the business Instagram account. As a sole trader, this policy applies to the business owner in all professional online conduct representing the practice.

3. Guiding Principles
All social media use will:

  • Uphold the reputation and integrity of the speech pathology profession

  • Reflect evidence-based practice

  • Be honest, accurate, and not misleading

  • Respect client confidentiality and privacy

  • Comply with all applicable legal and ethical obligations

4. Platforms Used
Engage Speech Pathology Services currently uses:

  • Instagram (primary social media platform)

No other social media platforms (e.g., Facebook) are currently operated.

5. Professional Conduct Online
When posting or interacting on social media, Engage Speech Pathology Services will:

  • Maintain professional boundaries at all times

  • Avoid engaging in personal or informal relationships with clients via social media

  • Not provide individual clinical advice through social media platforms

  • Ensure all content reflects professional standards consistent with Speech Pathology Australia guidelines

6. Privacy and Confidentiality

  • No client-identifying information (including names, images, case details, or any identifiable data) will be shared without explicit, informed, written consent

  • Even with consent, caution will be exercised to minimise risk of identification

  • Private messages received via Instagram will not be used to discuss confidential clinical matters

7. Advertising and Promotion
All advertising and promotional content will:

  • Comply with the Code of Ethics – Advertising Policy of Speech Pathology Australia

  • Be truthful, factual, and not misleading or deceptive

  • Avoid creating unrealistic expectations of therapy outcomes

  • Not use testimonial statements, endorsements or client success stories

  • Clearly distinguish between general information and professional advice

  • Avoid making comparative or disparaging claims about other practitioners

8. Content Guidelines
Content shared may include:

  • General speech and language development information

  • Evidence-based tips and strategies

  • Updates about services offered

  • Educational resources

Content will not:

  • Provide diagnosis or treatment for individuals

  • Replace formal assessment or therapy

  • Contain unverified or non-evidence-based information

9. Interaction with the Public
Comments and messages will be responded to in a professional and timely manner where appropriate. Inquiries requiring clinical input will be redirected to appropriate professional channels (e.g., formal consultation). Inappropriate, offensive, or misleading comments may be removed

10. Personal vs Professional Use
Personal opinions will not be presented as professional advice. If personal accounts are used, care will be taken to ensure they do not negatively impact professional reputation

11. Record Keeping
Social media content that constitutes advertising or professional communication may be retained as part of business records where appropriate

12. Breaches of Policy
Any identified breach of this policy will be addressed promptly, including:

  • Removal or correction of content

  • Review of procedures to prevent recurrence

13. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure ongoing compliance with:

  • Updates from Speech Pathology Australia

  • Changes in Australian law or regulatory requirements

  • Evolving social media practices

Review date: 28 April 2027