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.
CPE Application Documents (previous application system)
CPE Application – Guidance Notes
CPE Application – Guidance Notes for Applicants_19 Oct 2020
CPE Application (Stage 1)
Template CPE Stage 1 Preliminary Application Form
CPE Application Checklist (Stage 2)
Template CPE Stage 2 Major and Minor Works Checklist
CPE Referees Report (Stage 2)
Template CPE Stage 2 Referee Report_Blank
PAB Rules
PAB Rules Modified 28 Oct 2020 – The PAB Rules are currently being updated. The latest update will be available soon.
HFESA Code of Practice
Download the HFESA Code of Practice.
Maintenance of Certification (MOC)
MOC Guidance Notes
MOC Guidance notes
MOC FAQs
MOC FAQs
MOC Record Sheet
MOC Record sheet
A small logo indicating CPE status is available for use by certified members of the Society on professional correspondence.
Click here to read the Professional Affairs Board guidance note for use of the CPE logo.
Core IEA Competencies
Core Competencies in Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) – Professional knowledge and skills