Requirements and exemptions
Who can supervise, your SPDP deadline, and how to apply for an exemption.
Who needs to complete SPDP
You'll need to be an approved supervisor if you're one of the following:
You must complete SPDP 1, 2 and 3 to supervise trainees in RACP physician training programs. This also keeps your training setting eligible for accreditation.
Basic Training Rotational Supervisors who supervise trainees are encouraged to complete SPDP 3.
Your deadline
You have 12 months to complete the SPDP. You're eligible to supervise trainees while completing these requirements.
| If you're | Your 12 months starts |
|---|
| New to supervision | From the day you start your supervision role |
| Returning to supervision | From the day you resume, if you haven't supervised in the last 24 months. You must complete any outstanding workshops. |
Log in to MyRACP to check your supervisor status and see which parts you've completed.
Note: if requested by your workplace or specialty society, we will provide your name and SPDP completion status.
When an exemptions applies
You can apply for an exemption from SPDP 1 and 2 if you have both:
- formal medical education studies, or equivalent supervisor training with another medical college such as RCPA, and
- 3 or more years' experience as an RACP supervisor
All supervisors must complete SPDP 3
SPDP 3 covers RACP work-based assessment, which is specific to our trainee assessment process. It can't be exempted, even if you're exempt from SPDP 1 and 2.
Your application must include evidence of the relevant completed training program — applications without it won't be accepted. We may contact you for more information while we assess it.
We'll email you the outcome of your application. Where the outcome can't be determined, the relevant committee makes the final decision. Decisions can take up to 6 months.
Apply for an exemption