The Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) Professional Affairs Board in Australia (PABA) has recently adopted the International Ergonomics Association (IEA) HFE Core Competencies as its benchmark. Consequently, the PABA Certification Committee has undertaken a review of the CPE/CHFEP application process to reflect this.

PABA has an agreed new certification system which recognises the need for early career mentoring to support, promote and encourage professional development, as well as certification of those with more experience.

This new certification system has three entry points being:

  • STUDENT – sHFEP – applicant undergoing tertiary training; access to a mentor who is an experienced CHFEP.
  • ASSOCIATE – aHFEP – post-graduation / early career development; access to mentoring (away from their employer) in chosen domain/s, to guide them through full application process in steps.
  • CERTIFIED – CHFEP – full application; process support from “buddy” CHFEP.

While we are still refining the details for the Student and Associate entry application points, we have re-opened the certification process and welcome applications for the Certified level, CHFEP applications.

Over the next month while the website is being updated with application information and resources, CHFEP applicants are welcome to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) of their intent to commence their certification application here: https://hfesa.wavecrm.com.au/application/01JZVHECGD0ZEZMEYVFBB23TW6

All applications will cost $300.

Once an application is received, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to complete and submit their application, along with a link to a onedrive folder to submit their documents. They will also be assigned a current CHFEP (formerly CPE) ‘buddy’ to support them through the application process.

When their application is completed, applicants will then be required to notify the HFE PABA that their application is ready to be assessed via this link: https://hfesa.wavecrm.com.au/application/01KCJNQVPAY7GMJY5TZ9ZHA61C

Assessment of applications will commence from February 2026, in order of the notification of readiness for assessment.

It is anticipated that applications will take on average one month for assessment. Note: this may vary per applicant and outcome/recommendations.

If unsuccessful, applicants will be referred to a mentor. This is to support them through the process of providing evidence of adequate knowledge in areas or domains where they are currently not competent, prior to their application being resubmitted and reassessed.

Certified Human Factors & Ergonomics Professional (CHFEP) have been certified by the HFESA and have demonstrated that they have the skills and experience to provide high quality and consistent advice and support in the area of Ergonomics and Human Factors. The HFESA CHFEP programme is endorsed by the International Ergonomics Association.
Your application for CHFEP will be in 2 stages: the CHFEP Preliminary Application and the Full CHFEP Application. The Preliminary Stage provides an opportunity for you to realistically and honestly evaluate your work and experience in relation to the criteria for CPE membership specified in the PAB rules, paying special attention to areas 4.0, 4.1.1 and 4.1.2. To complete a CPE Preliminary Application, please click on read more.

For admission to Certified Human Factors & Ergonomic Professional, the applicant must have:

  • Completed an education program which provides a comprehensive set of ergonomics competencies
  • Expertise in ergonomics demonstrated through the provision of at least one major work sample, to be submitted within a 2 year period prior to the CHFEP application, supported by one or more work samples or products of smaller magnitude
  • A minimum of four years of full-time practice in human factors & ergonomics or the part-time equivalent

If you meet the above criteria, then you can apply to become a CHFEP. 
The Professional Affairs Board Australia (PABA) accepts free-form CHFEP applications which address the CHFEP rules which can be read here. Please pay special attention to sections 4.0 and 4.1.1.
It is also necessary for the applicant to provide suitable references to the PABA so they can validate the content of the application.

Standard benefits included:

  • Society Directory listing (member to member search)
  • Networking opportunities with ergonomics/human factors professionals for the exchange of scientific and professional practice information
  • Reduced registration fees Professional Development (PD) events and meetings, webinar/online PD events and Special Interest Group meetings
  • Vote at Society meetings
  • Discounts from book and journal publishers
  • The option for professional indemnity insurance tailored for ergonomists/human factors professionals
  • Monthly HFESA Connect e-newsletter with latest events and news
  • Discounted Annual Conference registration (two conferences held annually)
  • Conference Proceedings
  • Membership Certificate
  • Complimentary Special Interest Group membership
  • Able to hold office

Specific benefits included:

  • CHFEP (formerly CPE) as post nominals
  • Membership Certificate
  • Public Directory listing (optional)

Membership Period: From 22nd Jan 26 To 30th Jun 2027

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