The CPD Program is supported by a set of formal policies that provide governance, accountability and consistency across CPD participation, recognition and quality assurance. These policies sit alongside guidance, tools and frameworks to support the effective operation of the CPD Program.

Purpose of CPD program policies

CPD program policies establish the formal expectations, principles and governance arrangements that underpin the CPD Program.

They are designed to:

• Support consistent application of CPD requirements
• Clarify roles, responsibilities and obligations
• Provide transparency and accountability
• Support quality assurance and continuous improvement
• Ensure appropriate oversight and review

Policies provide the authoritative basis for CPD requirements and processes.

Policy and guidance: understanding the difference

It is important to distinguish between policy and guidance.

Policies are formal, College-approved documents that set out principles, obligations and governance arrangements.

Guidance, frameworks and tools explain how policies are applied in practice and support day-to-day understanding and use.

Where there is any inconsistency, formal policy documents take precedence.

Current policy landscape

The CPD Program is supported by several policy areas that address different aspects of CPD participation and governance.

Historically, CPD policy content has been consolidated within a single CPD Participation Policy.

The College is currently reviewing CPD-related policies with the intention of establishing separate, purpose-specific policies to improve clarity and relevance.

Types of CPD program policies

CPD program policies may include policies relating to:

• CPD participation and participant obligations
• Recognition and assessment of CPD activities
• Quality assurance, monitoring and audit
• Provider obligations
• Exemptions from CPD requirements
• Complaints and concerns related to CPD
• Governance, review and compliance

Each policy addresses a specific purpose and audience.

Policy development and approval

CPD program policies are developed and maintained through formal College governance processes.

This includes:

• Review and endorsement by the CPD Committee
• Legal review by the College’s in-house legal team
• Approval through appropriate governance pathways

Policies may be updated from time to time to reflect changes to CPD requirements, regulatory expectations or program design.

Using CPD program policies

CPD participants and external providers are encouraged to:

• Refer to relevant CPD program policies where needed
• Use guidance and tools alongside policies to understand how requirements apply in practice
• Ensure they are referring to the most current version of a policy

Policy documents are made available to support transparency and shared understanding.

Related policy and guideline documents​

• CPD Audit Policy
• CPD Participation Policy
• CPD Exemption and Variation policy
• RACP Complaints Management Policy
• RACP Re-entry into Practice and Remediation Support Guidelines