Category 1 – Leave from the program
Category 1 leave includes leave entitled by law, such as sick leave and carer’s leave (over the limits listed above), parental leave and other types of leave, for example, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander additional cultural leave, and leave imposed because of training program administrative constraints.
When applying for Category 1 leave, you’ll need to provide valid certificates, where appropriate. Applications will then be considered by the regional or local team, including the regional or local lead ME. If you need to apply for more than 12 months leave, a return-to-work process will be put in place to help you settle back into the training program and your placement.
As you’re entitled to this leave by law, it won’t affect your training time cap. You can also start your training program on Category 1 leave.
For more information about parental leave, please refer to the General Practice Registrars Australia website.
Category 2 – Additional leave from the program
Category 2 leave is available for situations such as when you need to take additional leave for personal reasons, or for reasons not included under category 1 leave.
You can apply for a maximum of 26 weeks of leave in addition to what is available under Category 1 leave, or up to 52 weeks if there are extenuating and unforeseen circumstances. You can’t start your training program on Category 2 leave.
Category 2 leave applications must be lodged four months prior to the beginning of the semester. Applications are considered by the local team.
It’s important to note that Category 2 leave is included in your training time cap. The regional team will consider if you have enough time remaining in your time cap before approving the leave.
Category 3 – ADF service leave
Category 3 leave is only available to ADF registrars and applies to mandatory ADF postings. It doesn’t count towards program time and therefore doesn’t affect your training cap. It’s also possible to start your training program on Category 3 leave.
You’ll need to include your posting order with your application for leave, which will be reviewed by your local or regional team.
Category 4 – Deferral of commencement of training
You may apply for Category 4 leave to defer the commencement of your training. Category 4 leave will only be considered in extenuating and unforeseen circumstances, if the RACGP is unable to match you to an appropriate training site, or if you provider number is not issued in time for the commencement of training.
You may apply to defer your commencement of training for an initial period of up to 26 calendar weeks. In extenuating circumstances, you may submit a request for an additional period of up to 26 calendar weeks. Applications for Category 4 leave will be approved by your local team.