Latest updates

Grant Round 7

  • Application window closed
  • Outcomes communicated to all applicants in June 2023
  • Activities must be completed from 1 July 2023 – 30 June 2024

Grant Round 8

  • Applications accepted between February and April 2024
  • Outcomes will be communicated to all applicants by June 2024
  • Activities must be completed from 1 July – 31 December 2024

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    About SRSA

    Eligibility

    You must work in rural Australia (Modified Monash 2-7) and be part of a (non-GP) specialist medical college as:

    • A Fellow
    • An Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander trainee
    • A Specialist International Medical Graduate under assessment

    CPD activities must be completed in Australia or New Zealand within the grant round timeframe.

    Priorities

    Selection is done by initial ranking then review by a selection panel, which preferences:

    • Applicants who practice in more remote settings
    • Applicants whose CPD activity will contribute to their community and learning goals
    • CPD activities that are more interactive e.g., clinical attachments, mentorships, peer review, workshops and practical courses

    Process

    Apply by completing our online application form (February to April).

    We will notify all applicants of their outcome via email (June).

    If successful you will receive your grant and complete your CPD activity between July and December.

    Testimonials:

    • “Peer review and interactive learning, the ability to ask questions and watch is a powerful learning tool. It is not commonly appreciated for those in the large hospitals where contacts is present daily.”

      RANZCO Fellow
    • “Lots of hands on and mentored case reading means I feel more confident to tackle live cases on a daily basis on return to the practice. This has been a very easy and gratifying process and I am very grateful for the opportunity this funding process has afforded me.”

      RANZCR Fellow
    • “I think that this is an essential part of rural and regional practice support as due to geographic and practical difficulties it is much more difficult for rural practitioners to get to appropriate continuing professional educational events.”

      RACS Fellow
    • “I have expertise in my subspecialty area of civil forensic assessments that I did not previously have; this is an internationally certified expert status. I feel highly supported professionally and engaged in an isolated major regional area with little opportunities for professional development.”

      RANZCP Fellow
    • “This program provides excellent support and encouragement for maintaining/enhancing abilities and skills for rural specialists. Some components of the course (cadaveric workshop/veterinary laboratory) would never be available in my regional place of practice and significantly enhanced my learning at the workshop.”

      ANZCA Fellow

    FAQs

    What is the maximum amount I can apply for per Grant Round?

    The maximum is $10,000 per activity, per round. You can apply for up to three activities, but can only receive funding for one.

    Can I apply for multiple CPD activities in the same Grant Round?

    Yes, although you will only be awarded a grant for one activity. If you are applying for multiple activities, it is a good idea to rank them in order of your preference.

    Can I apply for a CPD activity / event overseas?

    From Grant Round 7 onwards, CPD activities can be completed in Australia and (if they are college events) New Zealand.

    For all previous rounds, CPD activities can only be completed in Australia.

    Can I apply for a CPD activity retrospectively?

    Unfortunately, no.

    All CPD activities must be requested prospectively and completed within the Grant Round activity window (15 months).

    How can I increase my chances of securing a CPD grant?

    To increase your chances:

    • Make the benefits of the CPD activity to your learning goals and the community/ies you serve clear
    • Apply for more active learning, such as a clinical placement or peer review

    Often applications exceed available grant funds. If you miss out, please re-apply during the next round.

    Can I apply for university degrees, diplomas, and certificates?

    The Assessment Panel may consider requests to complete components of individual university level study e.g. courses and workshops. The proposed course(s) must be completed within the designated Grant Round activity window.

    When would I receive the funds?

    Once you have completed your activity, we will ask you to send us your receipts and complete a short evaluation survey. Once this is done, we will reimburse you for your expenses into your nominated bank account.

    What happens if I am no longer able to attend my approved CPD activity?

    If you have any difficulties attending your CPD activity please contact us.

    You may be able to attend an alternative activity but will need to get permission in writing. To apply for a change, simply send us details of why you were unable to attend your approved activity along with the proposed replacement activity.

    Your total grant amount won’t change and you will have to complete the new activity within the grant round timeframe.