Title: Continuing Professional Development
Author: Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra)
https://www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Continuing-Professional-Development.aspx
About
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is a mandatory requirement for all registered health practitioners in Australia, under the National Law governing the National Boards and Ahpra. The document outlines the specific CPD requirements for each profession, which are detailed in the Registration Standards on each Board's website.
These standards specify the number of credits, points, or hours practitioners must spend annually on learning activities. Additionally, some health professions include further guidelines in their Codes and Guidelines.
Author
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) is responsible for this resource. Ahpra works in partnership with 15 National Health Practitioner Boards to regulate the health professions in Australia. Their role includes the oversight of registration and accreditation, ensuring health practitioners meet national standards.
Key Takeaways
- CPD is mandatory for all registered health practitioners in Australia.
- CPD requirements vary by profession, detailed in each profession’s Registration Standards.
- Practitioners must complete a specified number of credits or hours in learning activities annually.
- Some professions provide additional CPD guidelines in their Codes and Guidelines.
- Ahpra and National Boards enforce these CPD requirements to maintain high practice standards.
CPD for Mental Health Practitioners
Psychologists
Registered psychologists must continually maintain, enhance, and extend their knowledge and skills. This ongoing professional development is vital for providing competent and current psychological services.
Nurses and Midwives
The CPD requirements for enrolled nurses, registered nurses, and midwives include maintaining and updating their professional skills. This applies to all, whether in paid or unpaid practice, and even when on leave, like maternity leave.
Occupational Therapists
Occupational therapists are required to complete a minimum of 20 hours of CPD annually. This training focuses on improving patient outcomes and is based on the best available evidence, including research-supported knowledge, for informed practice and decision-making.