CPD categories describe the different types of learning and improvement activities that can count towards your CPD requirements. They help ensure your CPD includes a balanced mix of learning, reflection and improvement relevant to your practice.

CPD categories

CPD categories group activities based on how learning occurs and how it is applied in practice. Each category supports a different aspect of professional development and together they form the structure of the CPD Program.

Activities undertaken across these categories may also contribute to CAPE Program-Level Requirements where they meet the relevant focus areas.

Educational activities

Educational activities focus on acquiring or updating knowledge and skills.

These activities are typically structured learning experiences that support professional development and clinical practice.

Examples may include

• courses, workshops or webinars
• conferences or seminars
• accredited learning modules
• formal teaching or learning programs

CAPE alignment

Educational activities may count towards CAPE requirements where the content focuses on:

• cultural safety and addressing health inequities, or
• professional behaviour and ethical practice
• Recognition of CAPE alignment is confirmed in advance.

Reviewing performance 

Reviewing performance focuses on reflecting on your own practice to identify strengths, gaps and opportunities for improvement.

These activities encourage critical reflection and self-assessment.

Examples may include

• self-assessment against standards
• peer review or feedback
• audit and reflection on practice data
• reflective learning activities

CAPE alignment

Activities in this category may meet CAPE requirements where reflection relates to:

• culturally safe practice
• addressing inequities in care
• professional behaviour and ethical practice

Measuring outcomes 

Measuring outcomes focuses on evaluating the impact of changes in practice on patient care or outcomes.

These activities support quality improvement and evidence-based practice.

Examples may include

• quality improvement projects
• outcome measurement and analysis
• implementation and evaluation of change
• follow-up audits or reviews

Using CPD categories when planning your CPD

When planning your CPD, categories help you to:

• choose a mix of activity types
• integrate learning, reflection and improvement
• meet CPD requirements in a structured way
• plan CAPE-aligned activities across categories

Recognition of activities occurs before you undertake them, helping you plan with confidence.