CEO's Message
I write this having just come out of the SARRAH AGM earlier today. It was a relatively short meeting and a good one. We reflected briefly on the past year, with all its challenges, COVID and otherwise. It reminded us just how different SARRAH’s circumstances are now compared to what we faced 12 months ago. 2020-21 was a big year and the current year will be even bigger. We will be expanding the Allied Health Rural Generalist Pathway into private and non-government settings, helping to retain and hopefully build and Allied Health capacity, workforce and pathways where it is desperately needed. We now have some assurance of being able continue to work with and for our members and colleagues. We take none of this for granted. This time last year things were looking far less certain – despite the overwhelming need that continues to exist across rural and remote Australia. A vital workforce program to roll out, a new Constitution, a growing member base with a need for tailored, informed education and supports that help them deal with the issues and challenges they face. There’s plenty that needs to be done.
This morning we also held a SARRAH Discussion Forum – with a primary focus on NDIS service and workforce issues. It was an intensive two hours, with insights and energy coming from 50 plus people trying to make a system that isn’t geared to deliver for rural and remote communities fit for purpose. Participants spanned a wide range of communities, stakeholders and service settings. We’ll be sharing a more detailed summary of the Forum soon. For now, I think the important thing to say is that SARRAH is needed now as much as it ever has been and that people across Australia who are members of, and/or work with this organisation are impressive, knowledgeable and committed. They need to have far more influence over the policies, services and funding arrangements available to deliver for rural and remote communities than has been the case to date. Our job, as always, is to ensure these voices are heard. We will keep trying.
Stay Safe,
Cath
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 Queensland Parliament Inquiry
On 17 November 2021 the Qld Legislative Assembly agreed to inquire and report on the provision of primary, allied and private health care, aged care and NDIS care services and its impact on the Queensland public health system.
A public hearing will be held in Brisbane, on Wednesday 8 December 2021. SARRAH has been approached to help with the inquiry.
Submissions are also welcome – with a closing date for the receipt of submissions 16 December 2021 at 10.00am.
terms of reference of reference are broad: and as such refreshingly inclusive, not only of allied health, but in recognising the integrated nature of the service systems which so many AHPs straddle and/or try to help navigate with the people needing care.
That the Health and Environment Committee inquire into and report to the Legislative Assembly by 31 March 2022 on the provision of:
a. primary and allied health care;
b. aged and NDIS care;
c. the private health care system;
and any impacts the availability and accessibility of these services have on the Queensland public health system.
In conducting this inquiry, the Health and Environment Committee should consider:
a. the current state of those services (outlined in 1) in Queensland;
b. bulk billing policies, including the Commonwealth Government's Medicare rebate freeze;
c. the Commonwealth Government's definition of the Commonwealth Distribution Priority Areas; and
d. the availability of medical training places at Queensland universities, compared to other jurisdictions.
Further information about the committee’s inquiry can be found here.
National plan for Nurse Practitioners
Late last week the Government announced a 10-year strategic plan to better engage the more than 2,250 nurse practitioners in Australia who work across the health system including in our hospitals, aged care facilities, mental health services, and primary healthcare services. “This is the first opportunity for the community, health providers, clinicians, and experts to make a contribution to this new plan, which will be delivered by the middle of next year,” Minister Hunt was quoted as saying in his media release of 19 November. “We want to ensure that the 10-year plan improves health outcomes, addresses workforce challenges and ensures that Australians can continue to access the support they need.”
There is an absolute need for highly skilled health professionals, such as Nurse Practitioners (NPs), to be able to utilise those skills to best effect and to be supported by health system settings to do so. Many of the workforce issues pertinent to NPs also apply to AHPs. This is important work that needs to be progressed seriously and with commitment. Stakeholders can inform the development of the plan through a survey available on the Department of Health’s Consultation Hub - www.consultations.health.gov.au. Alternatively, written submissions will be accepted to nursepolicy@health.gov.au. Consultation will close on Monday 20 December 2021.
Of course, the next question might be “when will we see a national strategy for the approximately 220,000 AHPs” about whom the same things could be said.
Reminders – submissions coming up, noted previously
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 mental health standards for CMOs now available for input
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.
For information: 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.
Other Invitations
The NDIS National Workforce Plan and the Quarterly Update for October 2021 on its implementation are available at www.dss.gov.au/ndisworkforceplan.
DSS is also holding a briefing on progress with the implementation of the Plan. SARRAH has been seeking to contribute to the further development and implementation of the Plan and encourages interested members to engage with the process (and us) to help make the Scheme as accessible, sustainably cost-effective, participant-centred and outcome-driven as possible. It can’t be that if participants can’t access enabling allied health services.
It is open invitation and you are welcome to share these details with other interested parties. Contact the department’s Workforce Policy Team at NDISworkforceplan@dss.gov.au should you have any questions.
Briefing details:
Date: Tuesday, 14 December 2021
Time: 3:00pm – 4:00pm AEDT
Location: This is a virtual briefing and will be hosted via Microsoft Teams. This can be accessed via web browser or the Microsoft Teams application.
Please click here to join the briefing at 3:00pm AEDT Tuesday 14 December 2021.
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Australian Government - Services Australia Update
Services Australia is upgrading its digital health and aged care channels. These upgrades will ensure that patient and provider information is secure, now and into the future.
To continue accessing the channels below, you’ll need to be using web service compatible software by 13 March 2022:
- Medicare Online
- Australian Immunisation Register
- Department of Veterans’ Affairs
- ECLIPSE
- PBS Online
- Aged Care Online
What you need to do
Your software developer will have information on their transition and upgrade plans for your site. If you haven’t heard from them, contact them now and ask:
- when will your web services compatible software be available
- if you will need to register your organisation in PRODA.
If you use PBS Online, your software developer will contact you when more information is available. Read more here.
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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:
- Visit SARRAH’s online learning store, choose your course and follow the prompts.
- If this is your first time at the store you will be prompted to first create a user account.
- 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.
- Once you have completed the purchasing process you are automatically enrolled.
- Then you can simply click your way into the course and begin your learning journey.
- Email melodie@sarrah.org.au if you would like to request a relevant discount.
Enrolments now open for:
The following three courses are available for free. These courses have been developed by eCreators and have been developed and shared under a Creative Commons License.
- How to develop a growth mindset
- How to be a good mentor
- How to identify your non-negotiables in life
For more information about the courses 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
This project is funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health
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SARRAH ENGAGEMENT SURVEY CLOSING SOON!
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
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The Australian Volunteers Program, funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) operates in 26 countries and recruits thousands of Australians with a broad range of skills and experience every year. The program is working with DFAT to recruit a select group of Australians with specific skillsets to support a coordinated health response across our region.
Over the last 18 months, we’ve shifted our focus to remote volunteer assignments to continue providing much needed support to our partners.
We’re currently looking to fill the following volunteer positions:
You will be supporting organisations based in the Philippines, Federated States of Micronesia, Solomon Islands and Tonga.
As a remote volunteer, you will be offered:
- Language training allowance
- A modest allowance for weekly expenses
- Online events and an opportunity to connect with likeminded volunteers
Find out more about remote volunteering or contact recruitment@australianvolunteers.com for more information.
Applications close at midnight December 1st 2021.
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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.
Social Worker/Psychologist Counsellor Children Young People and Families
A fantastic opportunity to make a difference in the health outcomes of a regional community! We are seeking a motivated health professional who is a Social Worker Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3 or Psychologist who is passionate about helping families to improve the emotional and mental wellbeing of their children, whilst working collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team to join our team! Read more here
Physiotherapist AHP 2
Applicants must hold a recognised qualification within the Physiotherapy profession and be eligible for (full) membership of [AHPRA]. For those disciplines requiring Registration, all requirements to maintain current registration must be fulfilled. For self-regulated professions it is desirable to participate in the professional associations’ accredited CPD program. Read more here
Physiotherapist AHP 1
The applicants must hold a recognised qualification within the Physiotherapy profession and have current registration with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia. For those disciplines requiring Registration, all requirements to maintain current registration must be fulfilled. For self-regulated professions it is desirable to participate in the professional associations’ accredited CPD program. Read more here
Social Worker Level 3 - Renal - Manning Base Hospital
Are you looking for a permanent position that offers genuine career development in a supportive, dynamic environment? Don't miss this opportunity!! Although this is a Level 3 position we thoroughly encourage Level 1/2 Social Workers to apply. We have an excellent, permanent opportunity for a passionate, driven Social Worker to provide high quality clinical services and leadership, as part of the multidisciplinary team, for patients and their families/carers within the Lower Mid North Coast Sector. Read more here
Senior Social Worker Level 3 - Generalist
This is a great, permanent opportunity for a dedicated professional to apply their excellent leadership and social work skills in this pivotal role to provide high quality clinical services and leadership, as part of the multidisciplinary team, for patients and their families/carers at Lower Mid North Coast Sector! Although this is a Level 3 position we thoroughly encourage Level 1/2 Social Workers to apply. Read more here
Senior Speech Pathologist - Level 3 - Oncology Specialist
This is predominantly a specialist role providing high level care to patients of the Manning Cancer and Palliative Care Service outpatient, inpatient, in-home and community settings. You will also be involved in developing a project involving service development in our community. The successful applicant will also provide clinical care to acute inpatients in Manning Hospital. You will be supported with professional clinical supervision and have opportunity to enhance and develop further skills and knowledge required. Read more here
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
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.
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