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).

You determine the level of Cultural Safety to be explored and your CPD needs should be proportional to your scope of practice and engagement of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander patients. Completing the reflection as outlined in your annual Professional Development Plan (PDP) will help you meet this requirement.

Cultural safety is defined by AHPRA as:

Cultural safety is determined by Aboriginal or 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. (The National Scheme’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health and Cultural Safety Strategy 2020-25)
 

Getting started

In 2025, the RACGP has outlined five new simple recommendations for your program-level requirements. These are connected to the 2024 publications of:
RACGP’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural and Health Training Framework, published Nov 2024

NACCHO RACGP (The Guide) The fourth edition of the National Guide to preventive healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people  published Nov 2024 

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. 

RACGP’s 2025 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).