Shaping Better Pain Care
The Australian Pain Society advocates for equitable access to high-quality, evidence-informed, interdisciplinary pain care.
As Australia's leading multidisciplinary professional society for pain, APS brings together clinicians, researchers, educators and policymakers to influence policy, strengthen workforce capability, support research translation and improve pain care across Australia. Our work is informed by both evidence and lived experience
AUSTRALIAN PAIN SOCIETY
Our Advocacy Focus
APS advocates to:
- Improve equitable access to interdisciplinary pain care.
- Promote evidence-informed approaches to pain prevention, assessment and management.
- Influence policy, funding and system reform that supports better pain outcomes.
- Strengthen workforce capability through education, leadership and knowledge exchange.
- Support the translation of research into practice.
- Foster collaboration across professions, sectors and communities.
Together, these efforts help improve outcomes for people living with pain and reduce the burden of pain on individuals, families and communities across Australia.
Our Advocacy Work
The Australian Pain Society contributes to national policy and reform processes through submissions, position statements and public commentary.
Submissions
• APS Submission to NSQHS Standards 3rd edition – Stage 1 Consultation – 30 September 2025
• Budget Submission – support (FPM submission)
• Budget Submission – support (OPEN Online Pain Education Network submission)
Joint Statements
Parliamentary/Political Events
Chronic Pain Australia – Consumer Event – March 30 2026
APS Advocacy Strategy
Coming Soon
Advocacy Campaigns
National Pain Week 2026 – Chronic Pain Australia
Each year in July, National Pain Week raises public awareness about chronic pain as a major health issue in Australia. In 2026, it will run 26–31 July, with national advocacy activities, community engagement, and media coverage aimed at elevating understanding of chronic pain’s impact.
IASP Global Year 2026: Neuropathic Pain
Global awareness and education on neuropathic pain.
International Pain Awareness Month – Painaustralia
This global awareness initiative, supported locally by Painaustralia, takes place in September each year. It focuses on:
• Highlighting the daily challenges of living with chronic pain
• Encouraging people living with pain to speak up and seek support
• Delivering awareness events and resources designed to reduce stigma and strengthen public understanding of pain and its impacts
