Clinical practice guide, consent forms and patient information about genetic testing in NSW.
Clinical practice guide
Published: February 2025. Next review: 2030.
Genetic and genomic testing may be offered across an individual's life cycle, from preconception to adulthood and after a their death.
This clinical practice guide provides evidence-based advice for genetic and non-genetic health professionals to understand the clinical responsibilities involved.
Key components include:
- providing sensitive and safe care
- pre- and post-test counselling
- informed consent
- understanding specific complexities and implications
- consultation with other health professionals
- discussion of test results and findings
- implications for the individual and their relatives.
Consent forms
Genetic testing consent forms are available from the NSW Health state forms catalogue. NSW Health staff can order and print forms via Finsbury Green. Use your local process to order the forms.
Published: 2019. Next review: 2024.
Consent: genetic testing (adults, mature minors–minors)
Product details for printing: NH700574 and NH700574A (self-print)
Use this example form for training and demonstration of the fields and scope of consent.
Download sample form (PDF 213.4 KB)
Consent: genetic testing (substitute consent)
Product details for printing: NH700579 and NH700579A (self-print)
Use this example to demonstrate the form for patients 16 years and above without capacity as per the Guardianship Act 1987.
Download sample form (PDF 167.2 KB)
Patient information
NSW Health genetic services and your privacy
Published: May 2024. Next review: 2029.
Information on the privacy of health information within NSW Health genetics services, including collecting, use and access to personal information.
Download privacy leaflet (PDF 202.2 KB)
Recommended resources
Consent: Education for Health Professionals, Forms and Resources
A suite of resources for health professionals to understand how to explain and gain consent for genetic testing.
Source: Centre for Genetics Education
Guidance for Health Professionals Obtaining Consent for Clinical Genomic Testing
Guidance to support the NSW Health genetic testing consent form and includes issues to consider during the consent process.
Source: NSW Ministry of Health
Patient information sheet
Patient information to support patients and families make an informed decision about genomic testing.
Source: NSW Ministry of Health
Patient information video
An animated video that can be provided to patients and families to support informed consent.
Source: NSW Ministry of Health