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CEO's Message
We have a packed newsletter for you today so I'm going to keep this brief.  Our Annual General Meeting is one week away and we'd love you to join us! It's been a year of transformation for SARRAH as we secured further funding to continue the expansion of the Allied Health Rural Generalist Pathway, culminating in our transition to a Company Limited by Guarantee on 30 September 2021.  Come along and meet our President, Ed Johnson, as he highlights our achievements over the year. And - no spoilers - there may be a surprise or two in store.

Not that you need further enticing, but as a segue to the AGM we're holding a discussion forum for members and friends of SARRAH to help us develop our priorities for promotion ahead of the next Federal election.   While forum participants will have one eye fixed on the NDIS, the other will be cast across the mixed service environment that typifies rural practice.  We anticipate some fantastic input from service providers across the country as they share their experience of delivering services in rural and remote settings, and what they see are the barriers to access for people living in regional Australia.

So come along to the discussion forum next Friday morning to have your say on what our election campaign priorities should be, and then stay online to join the AGM and celebrate with us as we reflect on a busy and productive year.

Stay Safe,
Cath

SARRAH Annual Report 2020-21 now available.

This year's Annual Report will inform SARRAH Members and Stakeholders about SARRAH's achievements during the year and where it expects to go in the coming year. Here's a preview:

It was  a year of interruptions, false starts, cancellations and other virtual realities of living in a pandemic. Through it all, we continue to work on a range of programs and initiatives to enable our members and their colleagues to improve health outcomes for rural and remote Australians. We aim to improve the operating environments in which we work – with regulatory, policy, funding, networks, professional supports and recognition so Australians can enjoy comparable health, well-being and opportunity. SARRAH believes that every Australian has the right to have equitable access to services regardless of where they live. This is a key component of world-class health and social support systems and essential for supporting the health and well-being of all Australians. 


Find out more about what we have achieved in 2020-21 here. 

SARRAH Annual General Meeting (AGM) 2021

The next SARRAH AGM is scheduled to be held on Friday, 26 November 2021 at 12pm AEDT.  The purpose of the AGM is to report to Members on the organisation's activities over the previous 12 months and proposed activities in the forthcoming year. 

All members are invited to attend the meeting. The AGM will be held via Zoom. Please register to attend the meeting via the link provided in the invitation letter. Dial-in details for the meeting will be shared once the registration form is received. 

Please click here for more information. Please note that you will need to log in to your member portal to access the AGM information. 

Rural allied health workforce – clearing a path and joining up dots 
 Friday 26 November  9.30am - 11.30am
 
SARRAH is pleased to invite you to attend a discussion forum “Rural allied health workforce – clearing a path and joining up dots” to be run in conjunction with SARRAH’s Annual General Meeting Scheduled for 26 November 2021. The forum is scheduled to run from 9.30 am to 11.30 am AEDT. The AGM will start at 12.00 pm (AEDT).
 
Members and colleagues committed to improving allied health services and access across rural and remote Australia are welcome to join the Discussion.

Purpose of the Discussion Forum:
To develop a shared set of priorities to promote ahead of the next election and opportunities to connect with and develop networks – national, local and mixed, cross-sector and community focused.  
We expect that the proposed priority actions:
  • enable workforce and services that help address national issues but work locally. 
  • enable place-based trials/collaboration in locations, especially in communities with effective local networks.
We're keen to identify options which have broad participant support to work up and put to political leaders and funding agencies.
 
Focus on the Forum:
  • We will focus centrally on the NDIS, however for allied health in rural and remote Australia that often means looking at health, aged care and every situation and setting people need these services.
  • We will share ideas, what works on the ground and what doesn’t: innovative practice, collaborative service models and ways of building, attracting, supporting and retaining a workforce.
  • We will identify the best opportunities to connect with and where can we work together
For more information about the Forum please click here
Please click here to register for the Forum.

The annual migration of late-in-the-year consultation processes flying from official inboxes to ours continues: and is welcome enough.  As ever, Members and friends with an interest are welcome to share their views with us – allan@sarrah.org.au.
 
Forthcoming Submissions and Inquiries 
 

Aligning Regulation: The Australian Government is looking to align regulation across the aged care, disability support and veterans’ care sectors. This has potential to ease the burden on SARRAH members working across sectors. The Regulation Alignment Taskforce (cross-agency and working out of the Dept Health) has released a Consultation Paper (available here) and further information is available on their website.  There are several ways to engage in the consultation:
  • provide a written submission, closing Friday 17th December 2021.
  • register to participate in an online workshop held between 25 November – 8 December 2021 (noting places are limited).
  • participate in an online survey commencing in late November.
Questions can be directed to RegulatoryAlignmentTaskforce@health.gov.au.
 
Code of Conduct: The Department of Health is also seeking feedback on a draft Care and Support Sector Code of Conduct, developed in response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.  The draft is based on the existing NDIS Code and is intended to apply to providers and workers across the aged care, veterans’ care and disability support sectors. A consultation paper has been developed to seek feedback on the draft Code, which is available at the Ageing and Aged Care Engagement Hub. Submissions can be made through an online questionnaire online or in writing. The questionnaire is open until midnight Friday 10 December 2021.

Draft National Safety and Quality Mental Health (NSQMH) Standards for Community Managed Organisations (CMOs): The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC) is developing the NSQMH Standards for CMOs to improve the quality of mental health services, protect people from harm and provide best practice guidance for service providers.  The ACSQHC is inviting feedback via a written submission or participation in a focus group. To find out more, register to attend an information webinar or focus group and/or can review the draft standards go to the Commission’s website.  If you have any questions, please contact Rebecca Peters on (02) 9126 3524 or mentalhealth@safetyandquality.gov.au.  The consultation is open until midnight (AEDT) on Friday 21 January 2022.
 
SARRAH Engagements:  SARRAH has been invited to give evidence to the NSW parliamentary inquiry into 'Health outcomes and access to health and hospital services in rural, regional and remote New South Wales'. SARRAH President, Ed Johnson, and CEO, Cath Maloney will provide evidence on Friday 3 December 2021.

 

General information about learning online with SARRAH:

Head to our online store to see what courses are available. Discounts are available for SARRAH members and invited participants. Group discounts are also available.

Enrolment instructions: 
  1. Visit SARRAH’s online learning store, choose your course and follow the prompts.
  2. If this is your first time at the store you will be prompted to first create a user account.
  3. You will need to pay for your course. Payment types are either PayPal or by invoice. You can apply the coupon for your discount at checkout. If you’re paying by invoice, then your enrollment will be confirmed once payment has been received.
  4. Once you have completed the purchasing process you are automatically enrolled.
  5. Then you can simply click your way into the course and begin your learning journey.
  6. Email melodie@sarrah.org.au if you would like to request a relevant discount.
Enrolments now open for: 



For more information about the courses please click here 
The Allied Health Rural Generalist Education Training Scheme
(TAHRGETS)

We are excited to announce the expansion of our workplace education and training scheme for allied health rural generalists, beginning in February 2022.

If you are an allied health professional and want to join the allied health rural generalist pathway talk to your employer about TAHRGETS.

We will be offering 90 allied health rural generalist workplace training grants and scholarships to complete the JCU Level 1 or Level 2 pathways over the next three years. Supporting the development of the allied health rural generalist pathway in private and non-government sectors across rural Australia.
 
To find out more information and eligibility criteria please visit our website. 
Your employer can apply via this link 

If you need further information, drop an email at ahrgwes@sarrah.org.au


Applications close on 7 January 2022
This project is funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health

WE NEED YOUR FEEDBACK TO IMPROVE OUR SERVICES!

Don't miss this opportunity for you to have your say on how SARRAH engages with its members and stakeholders.

We have received a good response so far from our stakeholders and will share the outcome of the survey once it is closed.  Thank you to those who have already completed the survey.

We invite you to support SARRAH’s work by completing a short online survey about how SARRAH engages with members and the profession, and whether you would like to contribute your expertise.

It will take no longer than 10 minutes to complete the survey – please click on this link SARRAH Stakeholder Engagement Survey 2021  to access the survey. Please feel free to share the link with your colleagues and networks.

Your feedback is vital in shaping how SARRAH engages with you and with the profession.

The survey will close on Friday 3 December.
 
SARRAH: Making a difference – together!
 
Edward Johnson, President and Cath Maloney, CEO

Department of Health EOI:
Aged Care / Support at Home Assessment Trial Advisory Group

A new aged care assessment model incorporating a new assessment tool and assessment process is being developed as part of the new Support at Home program.

A trial to test and improve the assessment model will occur in the first half of 2022. An Advisory Group of up to 15 members will provide ongoing advice to support this process.

We are seeking expressions of interest for the Advisory Group from individuals representing:
  • aged care service providers who deliver CHSP, HCP, STRC or residential respite services
  • experienced aged care assessors
  • geriatric and allied health professionals
  • senior Australians and their family and carers who have experience with home care services.

Advisory Group members will serve for approximately 7 months between December 2021 and July 2022 and will meet online via video conference every 4 weeks. Members will need to commit to review prepared papers before each meeting, and actively contribute to discussions.

To be considered for the Advisory Group please email a completed Expression of Interest Form and brief CV to SAH.implementation@Health.gov.au by Friday 26 November.

Alternatively you can find the form and more engagement opportunities on the Ageing and Aged Care Engagement Hub.
If you have further questions about the Advisory Group, please email SAH.implementation@Health.gov.au.

Matching VET students and jobs - Human Services Placements Portal open for RTO's (mailchi.mp)

The Human Services Skills Organisation (HSSO) recently surveyed RTOs about Mandatory Work Placement and received responses from more than 200 RTOs. The data confirms a backlog of nearly 9,000 students who are having trouble securing placement to complete their qualification, of these nearly 7,000 are Aged Care specific.  At the same time, due to the ongoing impact of the pandemic and extended lockdown periods and other contributing factors, Aged Care providers are reporting critical shortages in the availability of personal care workers.

The HSSO in conjunction with the Commonwealth Department of Health are exploring ways in which the existing pool of students who need to complete MWR may be part of the solution. With critical shortages of labour, they believe students who have substantially completed their study would be well placed to be employed, on a casual basis, and simultaneously undertake their work placement with the potential of securing ongoing employment.  On that basis, they have established the Human Services Placements Portal to match this student workforce to employers as a matter of urgency. More information about this initiative is available here.  More information is available at careers@hsso.org.au


Does your organisation have a rural or remote health vacancy? To advertise here please complete the Advertising Listing Form and submit to sarrah@sarrah.org.au.

Physiotherapist ( Active Performance) - Cairns 
This physiotherapy role is based in Cairns with opportunity for remote work trips throughout FNQ, Cape York and East Arnhem Land. Active Performance provides an inclusive, family environment and value its employees. Active Performance is a great locally owned business with an enviable reputation
. Read more here

Speech Pathologist Level 4 - Paediatric
In this pivotal role, you will be accountable for leading a dynamic and enthusiastic team of Speech Pathologists, organising and delivering effective assessment, diagnosis and management of children and young people, consistent with the eligibility criteria of the CYPF Speech Pathology service. You will be supported in this role by the CYPF service manager, and have access to external supervision and relevant training opportunities to further develop your skills and enhance service delivery. Read more here

Occupational Therapist - Murray Bridge 
The applicants must hold a recognised qualification within the Occupational Therapy profession and be eligible for practicing membership of the relevant Professional Association. For those professions requiring Registration, all requirements to obtain and maintain current registration must be fulfilled. For self-regulated professions it is desirable to participate in the professional association accredited continuing professional development program. Read more here

Therapist Positions Vacant - Albury/Wodonga and Surrounds
Let us support you to expand your skills or try something new! Come and join our Therapy team at Aspire who are renowned for its quality Early Intervention Services that aim to positively impact the lives of children with disabilities and their families. Located in the Albury/Wodonga region, our Early Intervention Service is a purpose built facility which includes group rooms, therapy rooms (with observation windows and sound system), and plenty of office space. We also have an extensive range of assessments, therapy equipment and resources. Read more here 


Director - Director - Allied Health ( First Nations Peoples) (Aboriginal and /or Torres Strait Islander identified)
Enhance the capacity and capability of the allied health workforce to deliver services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Queensland | Lead statewide workforce initiatives that contribute to the Growing Deadly Families Strategy, First Nations Workforce Strategy and key reforms | Exciting identified temporary opportunity located at Herston or other Queensland location by negotiation. Read more here

Aged Care Coordinator - Transition Care Program 
This position is part of the Aged Care Unit which provide a number of services designed to meet the needs of our ageing population delivering a person centred, wellness and reablement approach. The Aged Care Unit consists of the Aged Care Assessment Team, Short Term Restorative Care and Transition Care, Aged Care Equipment Program and Specialist Geriatric Services. Read more here

Occupational Therapist Level 3 (Level 1/2s Considered)
This is a great opportunity for occupational therapists who want to work in a rural community. The position is best suited to a Level 3-eligible candidate, but applicants more suited to a level 1 or 2 position will be considered. New graduates are encouraged to apply. Read more here

Executive Director  - Policy & Professional Services
As part of the Executive leadership team reporting to the CEO, the Executive Director is responsible for the oversight of CRANAplus’ Policy and Professional Services to lead, influence, and drive initiatives to position and profile CRANAplus for success. CRANAplus is the Peak Professional Body for Health Professionals working in remote and isolated areas across Australia. Read more here

Physiotherapist - Corryong Health
Are you looking for a tree change? We are looking for a physiotherapist to be part of a small but comprehensive team of Health Professionals in a great rural location. Corryong Health is a multipurpose service including a General Practice, Allied Health and Community Services, Acute Hospital services and Residential Aged Care. As part of a small team of physiotherapists, this position provides an opportunity to challenge yourself and grow your skills, working in a supportive and professional environment. Read more here 

Senior Rehabilitation Consultant - Counsellor
Recovre is looking for talented and motivated allied health professionals including Occupational Therapists, Exercise Physiologist, or Physiotherapists to join our vibrant teams in Newcastle, Townsville, Tamworth , Wollongong. Read more here
 
Rehabilitation Consultants - Darwin, Dubbo and Bathurst
Recovre is looking for talented and motivated allied health professionals including Occupational Therapists, Exercise Physiologist, or Physiotherapists to join their vibrant teams in Darwin, Dubbo and Bathurst. Read more here
 
Occupational Therapist - Dundaloo Health Services
Dundaloo Support Services is a highly regarded person-centred disability service provider of meaningful Supported Independent Living, Community Assistance and Disability Day Programs throughout the beautiful Manning Valley and Great Lakes area in the Mid North Coast region of NSW. Read more here

Psychologist or Accredited Clinical Social Worker - Dundaloo Health Services
Dundaloo Support Services is a highly regarded person-centred disability service provider of meaningful Supported Independent Living, Community Assistance and Disability Day Programs throughout the beautiful Manning Valley and Great Lakes area in the Mid North Coast region of NSW. Read more here 
 
Speech Pathologist Rural Generalist, Mount Isa, QLD
This opportunity is allowing a Speech Pathologist with min. 2 years' experience to step into a supported leadership position, supervising a small team of new graduate speech pathologists whilst conducting a service planning project through the level 2 Allied Health Rural Generalist Graduate Certificate. Read more here.

Clinical Educator (Allied Health) - Southern Queensland Rural Health - Charleville
This position will see you supporting effective, high quality rural training experiences for undergraduate allied health students across regional, rural and remote Southern Queensland. You will also facilitate interprofessional learning opportunities during student placements and enhance of support and education to both students and clinical supervisors. Read more here 

 
Physiotherapist, Nhulunbuy, NT
Arnhem Physiotherapy Services are looking for a Physiotherapist keen for the ultimate adventure living and working throughout beautiful East Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. Passionate about helping people and with at least one year of experience in private practice. Read more here.

Speech Pathologist, Cape York, QLD
Capability Health is looking for a Speech Pathologist to become a part of their family. They operate in various locations with a diverse range of people of all ages and backgrounds; meaning every day is different. Capability Health provides friendly, holistic, and necessary allied health services to the community. Read more here.

Occupational Therapist, Cape York, QLD
Capability Health is looking for an Occupational Therapist to become a part of their family. They operate in various locations with a diverse range of people of all ages and backgrounds; meaning every day is different. Capability Health provides friendly, holistic, and necessary allied health services to the community. Read more here.

Physiotherapist, Cape York, QLD
Capability Health is looking for a Physiotherapist to become a part of their family. They operate in various locations with a diverse range of people of all ages and backgrounds; meaning every day is different. Capability Health provides friendly, holistic, and necessary allied health services to the community. Read more here.

Speech Pathologist, Moranbah, QLD
Locally owned private practice in Central Queensland. The practice has a driven and proven focus on ensuring families living in geographically isolated areas of Central Queensland have access to high quality, evidence-based speech pathology services. Read more here.

Clinical Psychologist, Moranbah, QLD
Moranbah is located in the Isaac region of Central Queensland Australia between Mackay and Clermont. Situated on the Peak Downs Highway, the coal mining town of Moranbah services the surrounding farming community as well as the families of those employed in the mining and associated industries. Read more here.

Physiotherapist, Moranbah, QLD
Moranbah is located in the Isaac region of Central Queensland Australia between Mackay and Clermont. Situated on the Peak Downs Highway, the coal mining town of Moranbah services the surrounding farming community as well as the families of those employed in the mining and associated industries. Read more here.

Occupational Therapist, Whitsundays, QLD
Have you ever wanted to live and work in the Whitsundays? Well here is your chance to join our fabulous, close-knit team. A rapidly growing Speech Pathology clinic is seeking an enthusiastic and driven occupational therapist with a desire to make a difference within our community. Read more here.

Physiotherapist, Wodonga VIC
Do you want to re-focus your career? Are you looking for a team that thinks outside the box? What about one day off every month?! You will be mentored to become an exceptional clinician, providing hands-on physio services to a wide range of clients. Join our fun, friendly team! Read more here.

2021 National Closing the Gap First Nations Health Conference 
November 22-24, 2021 - Gold Coast QLD 
2021 National First Nation's Health Conference 
November 24-26 2021- Sea World Resort, Gold Coast QLD
IAHA National Conference - ONLINE 
1-2 December 2021
2021 First Nations Allied Health Conference

13-15 December 2021 - Pullman Cairns International Hotel, Cairns QLD
Indigenous Wellbeing Conference 

6-7 December at Pullman Cairns International, QLD
3rd National Indigenous NDIS: Working Towards a Better Future Through Partnerships and Co-operation Conference 
December 14-17, 2021 - Pullman Cairns International Hotel, Cairns QLD 
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Conference

28-30 March 2022 - Sea World Resort Conference Centre - Gold Coast
IHPA Innovation and Collaboration - Activity based funding for sustainability in health care
4-6 May 2022 - Hybrid event
Aged Care Workforce Leaders Forum

28-30 March 2022 - Melbourne - Delegates will be informed 4 weeks prior to the event.


Copyright © 2021 Services for Australian Rural and Remote Allied Health (SARRAH). All rights reserved.


Services for Australian Rural and Remote Allied Health
Level 2, 53 Blackall Street, Barton, ACT, 2600

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