The CPD Audit Policy sets out the formal policy principles, requirements and processes that govern the annual audit of CPD activities recorded by participants in the RACP CPD Program. The annual CPD Audit is a quality assurance mechanism that supports oversight, accountability and confidence in CPD participation and recording. It helps verify that CPD activities recorded by participants are accurate, complete and aligned with applicable CPD registration and recertification requirements.

Purpose of the policy

The purpose of this policy is to establish a clear framework for the annual audit of CPD participation.

The policy is intended to:

• support the integrity and effectiveness of the CPD Program
• ensure CPD requirements are applied consistently
• provide transparency around audit selection, evidence and review processes
• support accountability and regulatory reporting obligations
• inform continuous improvement of CPD audit processes

What the policy covers

At a high level, the audit policy addresses:

• the purpose and scope of CPD audit activities
• how audit participants are selected
• expectations for CPD records and supporting evidence
• audit process steps and outcomes
• roles and responsibilities
• deferral requests in exceptional circumstances
• regulatory reporting and continuous quality improvement

Detailed audit processes and examples of acceptable evidence are provided in supporting participant guidance and tools.

Audit principles

The audit policy is informed by principles that include:

• fairness and procedural integrity
• consistency in assessment and verification
• transparency of process and outcomes
• confidentiality and data security
• accountability to regulatory requirements
• a focus on quality assurance and continuous improvement

Participant responsibilities

CPD Participants are responsible for maintaining accurate and complete CPD records and providing supporting documentation when required.

Participants selected for audit must ensure their records and evidence demonstrate completion of CPD requirements for the relevant CPD year. Supporting documentation should clearly identify relevant details such as the participant, activity, provider or authorising body, participation date and duration or hours claimed.

Governance and review

The CPD Audit Policy is monitored and evaluated by the CPD Team and reviewed every three years, or sooner if legislative or other changes require.

Audit governance and compliance are managed through the CPD Program, with audit outcomes used to support regulatory reporting and continuous improvement.

Using this policy

This page provides a summary of the CPD Audit Policy.

For practical guidance, including audit timeframes, evidence requirements and examples of acceptable supporting documentation, refer to audit-related guidance and participant tools.

Where there is any difference between this summary and the formal policy document, the formal policy document takes precedence.

Related policy document

You may wish to refer to:

CPD Audit Policy (PDF), which supports the RACP CPD Program and the CPD Recognition and Assessment Framework.