CEO's Message
We’re coming up to Christmas – the kids, especially, will be getting excited. We’re also coming up on an election, so some of that anticipation we felt as kids might start to stir in our hearts and minds as we hope for something special coming our way. There will be plenty of lists made and vague promises about goodies galore. And hopefully, when it’s all done, with be left with something more than the come down from the sugar high, the empty boxes and torn wrapping paper and the pair of ill-fitting socks that you’re sure you remember were gifted to someone else in slightly different wrapping paper only a couple of years ago.
Some favourites will be in shop windows (and available on-line of course) “Jobs, jobs jobs” and help with “housing, housing, housing”. There’ll be something about climate (but not too much) and health should get a look in. Perhaps this time we should aim for fewer gifts, but more substantive ones – that fit, go well together and are chosen carefully as being what we need as well as want: something that’ll last. So, hopefully not every new job will come with the hi-viz vest and hard hat, and not every health professional needs to be a doctor.
We saw a welcome example in the news this week. The ALP have committed (if they win government) $50M for a new CQU campus based in Cairns. CQU already offers a range of allied health courses (and as a dual sector university, also Allied Health Assistance VET qualifications). Far north Queensland, like the rest of regional rural and remote face severe workforce shortages in allied health, so hopefully the Cairns Campus and other necessary supports will be forthcoming. Teaching and training remuneration for rural practitioners, for example, would be great, so that students have the option and prospect of undertaking clinical placements in the rural settings we hope they’ll add to. That would be a useful present.
It was pleasing to see our National Rural Health Commissioner's acknowledgement, during the Senate Community Affairs Committee Inquiry into the provision of General Practitioner and other related primary health services, that doctors do their best work when they are part of a multidisciplinary team (see further detail in Allan's policy updates below). Statements like this contribute immensely to the growing awareness that, in order to attract and retain doctors to rural and remote communities, they need support not only from their peers but also the network of professional services and diverse workforce that make up rural primary health care. And that means policies, programs and funding need to be more inclusive of allied health workforce and service provision than we've seen to date.
Start writing your Christmas wish list - and let us know what's on your list!
Stay Safe,
Cath
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Aged Care and Other Legislation (Royal Commission Response # 2) Bill 2021
To the Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee’s Inquiry into the Aged Care and Other Legislation (Royal Commission Response No 2.) Bill 2021, which includes substantial changes to aged care funding arrangements among other matters as the Government response to the Aged Care Royal Commission. In line with parliamentary guidelines, we’ll make our submission available to Members once the Committee makes it public. The Committee has commenced public hearings, with the Committee’ hearing about the need for better access to allied health services for people receiving aged care, in facilities or the community. The transcript of the hearing held on 4 November is now available, and Members with a strong interest in aged care services may be interested in pages 18 through 27 especially.
Future focused primary health care: Australia’s Primary Health Care 10 Year Plan 2022-2032
The Government’s on-line Submission process closed on 9 November. SARRAH provided a Submission, which will be made available on our website shortly. In short, there are many positive aspects to the draft plan, but in our view considerable work still to be done not only in ensuring optimal integration of and access to allied health, but in understanding the distinct and complex roles, benefits, support mechanisms (or lack of) and challenges for the sector. The Government’s consultation paper and other background material is available here.
Regular readers will also know SARRAH’s strong interest in the current Senate Community Affairs Committee’s Inquiry into the Provision of general practitioner and related primary health services to outer metropolitan, rural, and regional Australians. Our Submission to the Inquiry (No. 153) is available here. Unsurprisingly, we seek to remind the Senate of the 80+% of health professionals who aren’t medicos, severe shortages of allied health across rural and remote and the implications for health outcomes. Public hearings have also commenced. We expect the Hansard of the hearing on 4 November to be put on the website soon.
The Hansard record should be available on the APH website soon. However, the draft Hansard shows “allied health” was referenced 14 times on the day – which was a pleasing start, with some useful acknowledgments, such as the following:
- “So we're going to need increased support for nursing staff and allied health, to help us manage……(page 4), … As for the GPs Medicare freeze, yes, that's been a persistent problem over many decades, and you are quite right: it is coming home to roost now, because of the infrastructure needed to even build the building, to even supply the allied health staff that we need.” (page 12). Dr Karen Price, President, Royal Australian College of General Practitioners
- “This is about access to care. Again, it's not just about doctors. It's about access to doctors, nurses and allied health professionals as well—the whole multi-disciplinary team and significant access to care. We have good data that shows that this maldistribution exists. …” (page 15) Dr John Hall, Past President, Rural Doctors Association of Australia
- “We focus a lot on the doctors. It's almost like they're the key predator. They're the signifier, the canary in the coalmine. Doctors do their best work when they're part of a multidisciplinary team that's comprised of nurses and allied health practitioners. And that can be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health practitioners, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, physiotherapists, psychologists, dietitians, podiatrists. If we, as doctors, work in a strong team, you don't need as many of us for a start because we're not doing stuff that other people can do better than we can, and we're providing much better care for our patients”. (Page 43) Associate Professor Ruth Stewart, the National Rural Health Commissioner
If you want to see more – you can find the Proof (Draft) Hansard here
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Rural allied health workforce – clearing a path and joining up dots
Friday 26 November 9.30am - 11.30am
Join us on-line - Link coming soon
SARRAH members, friends and others committed to improving allied health services and access across rural and remote Australia are invited to be part of this focused discussion.
We want to look centrally at the NDIS, but know that also means looking at health services, aged care and every other setting where you currently or want to provide care to people who need it.
More than a talk-fest: this will be two hours where we focus on:
- the things you know work – the practice, the collaborative service models, the ways of getting a workforce and supporting it;
- the things that irritate and get in the way of building that workforce and delivering allied health services where they are needed;
- identifying the issues and possible models for expansion or pilots to put to decision-makers soon – in the next couple of weeks – ahead of any election.
We want to share ideas, know what works for you and what doesn’t and to build a cross-sector collaboration of service providers, professionals, educators and others – to get movement. We have all the context needed – severe shortages, mal-distribution and rapidly growing demand; a National NDIS Workforce Plan; an Aged Care Royal Commission; plans for 10 year National Primary Health Care Plan; and an urgent need for coherent and flexible workforce and service systems that suit rural and remote communities. Be part of it!
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 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.
SARRAH Online National Conference - Call for EOIs : Organising and Scientific Committee - Closing tonight!
SARRAH will be holding its next National Conference virtually in 2022, and we are calling for expressions of interest from our members who may be interested in volunteering to be a part of the Conference Organising and Scientific committees.
The SARRAH National Conference is recognised as one of the key events that provide opportunities for allied health professionals working in rural and remote areas to network and share ideas, concerns, and solutions to advance allied health concepts for improving the quality of life of rural and remote residents.
The Conference will attract engagement from a broad range of researchers and practitioners around a chosen theme.
It is anticipated the first meeting of the combined Organising and Scientific Committee will be convened in early December 2021, after which the respective committee chairs will convene separate meetings for the organising and scientific committee streams. Both committees will have the full support of the SARRAH CEO and secretariat.
The role and responsibilities of Conference Organising and Scientific Committee Members include but are not limited to:
- set the strategic direction for the Conference, including conference objectives, abstract selection, keynote speakers, program development;
- assist in the drafting of relevant Conference documentation, including sponsorship strategy, a thematic overview, concept note, website content, call for abstracts, running sheets, promotional activities;
- recruit invited speakers, finalise the scientific program schedule, review and select oral abstract presentations, review and select poster award nominations;
- undertake outreach and communication, including approaching potential sponsors; and,
- any other tasks assigned by the SARRAH Board and the CEO.
Committee members and their organisations will be duly recognised and acknowledged on the conference website, and members will receive free conference registration.
How to apply:
If you are interested in joining a committee, please submit an EOI by completing the form available here by Friday 12 November 2021.
For more information about this call or to submit a completed Expression of Interest please contact Catherine Maloney catherine@sarrah.org.au or 0491 209 291.
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Enrolments Now Open!
SARRAH is very proud to announce that our new online course is available for enrolment.
The course developed specifically for service managers and owners who are looking to increase capacity by employing Allied Health Assistants. The course will provide in-depth knowledge and skills to:
- Outline the key steps required to design and implement AHA models of care in rural settings
- Outlines the core principles of workforce redesign
- Design a model of AHA care to fit your individual setting
- Design a model of AHA care to fit your individual setting
- Design a model of AHA care to fit your individual setting
Course Fee:
The full cost of the course is $500(+GST), with a 40% discount being offered to members and also to service managers.
Group discounts are also available. If you would like to take advantage of the SARRAH membership discount, or to negotiate a group discount, then please email melodie@sarrah.org.au for the code.
How to Enrol:
The course is available through our online learning store:
Course Management
The course is being managed by Dr Melodie Bat, our new Education Program Manager and she will be the best person to contact for more information and to request discount coupons. She can be contact at melodie@sarrah.org.au.
For more information about the course please click here.
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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
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WE NEED YOUR FEEDBACK TO IMPROVE OUR SERVICES!
Thank you to those who have already completed the survey. We have received a good response so far from our stakeholders and will share the outcome of the survey once it is closed.
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
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ClinEdAus - Now you can share your training materials
ClinEdAus is an open access, no user cost, evidence-based website for learning support and training materials for allied health clinical educators. Its intent is to provide consistent and sustainable clinical education content to support high quality clinical placement experiences for allied health students. SARRAH is a member of the ClinEdAus Content Advisory Group and the material is available through our website. A recent user evaluation of the ClinEdAus website indicated the need to source both new content and expand and update existing content.
How you can help!
The ClinEdAus team are seeking resources on (but not limited to):
- Providing supervision to students when the supervisor is offsite/remote or having to work from home.
- Providing practical ways to start difficult conversations with students on placement.
- Creating new placement opportunities (in settings where placements have not previously existed).
These resources can be from a variety of mediums (for example interactivities, downloadable tools, practical scenarios, checklists, documents, online interactive modules, podcasts, and quizzes).
Submitted resources will then be assessed using the established inclusion criteria to curate and select those resources that will be included on the website, ensuring copyright permissions are sought and sources acknowledged.
If you have any resources you would like to submit to ClinEdAus or have questions regarding particular topic areas, please send through to clinedaus@gmail.com .
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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.
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
Clinical Psychologist - Whyalla
This is an excellent opportunity to be part of the Community Mental (MH) Rehabilitation Services at Flinders and Upper North Local Health Network, Whyalla. The Psychologist applies clinical experience, clinical knowledge and professional competence to plan, implement and evaluate a comprehensive and integrated range of services, appropriate to the needs of the consumers of the services within the Local Health Network (LHN) Mental Health (MH) service and the local community. Read more here
Speech Pathologist - Rural Reliever Program
This is an excellent opportunity to be part of the Hunter New England’s Local health District (HNELHD) Allied Health Rural Reliever Program. As the Speech Pathologist rural reliever, you will provide leave relief to sites across HNELHD to ensure continuity of speech pathology service deliver for our rural communities. 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.
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