Introduction

As a doctor practising in Australia, each year you are required to allocate CPD time to consider and develop your culturally safe practice according to your scope of practice and role(s).

Ahpra’s The National Scheme’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health and Cultural Safety Strategy 2020-25 provides the following definition:

Cultural safety is determined by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, families and communities. Culturally safe practice is the ongoing critical reflection of health practitioner knowledge, skills, attitudes, practising behaviours and power differentials in delivering safe, accessible and responsive healthcare free of racism. 

Whilst the focus of culturally safe practice is on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island health it can also apply to other cultures and cultural issues.

Getting started

When planning your annual CPD we suggest that you start with the Good Medical Practice: A code of conduct for doctors in Australia (the code). The code describes what is expected of all doctors registered to practise medicine in Australia.¹

You determine your priorities and CPD hours, however, you must do at least one activity each year relating to culturally safe practice. Completing the reflection as outlined in your annual Professional Development Plan (PDP) will help you meet this requirement. To complete your PDP, login to myCPD home and open the PDP tool.

Consider connecting with organisations, attending cultural events or available cultural training options in your local area and reflect on your experiences for your program-level requirements. 

How do I get more information about this program-level requirement?

• Contact your local CPD team.
• Contact the RACGP’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health faculty.
• The RACGP’s evidence-based resources, guidelines and standards are developed by members. To get involved, use the nomination process to participate on one of the RACGP’s advisory committees. 

RACGP’s recommended activities

This document provides links to RACGP CPD approved activities and other suggested options to support your culturally safe practice. Many of these activities you can do on your own, or as part of a group (in your clinic).