3 RPL categories
RPL applications are now grouped into three categories:
- Professional experience requirements
- Research Project requirement
- Other curriculum requirements
Each category has its own application form for PREP and New Curricula trainees. This reflects the shift to competency-based progression under the new curricula and makes it clearer which form to use and how applications will be assessed.
Extended deadlines
You now have more time to submit your application. There's also built-in flexibility for late submissions in extenuating circumstances.
Extended to better support trainees who are often very busy when starting new programs.
| Application type | Previous deadline | New deadline |
|---|
| Professional experience | 3 months | 6 months |
| Research Project | 6 months | 12 months |
Currency rules
The 5-year currency requirement has been waived for research and coursework, as long as competencies remain current. RACP training completed outside the 5-year window due to flexible training arrangements is also now considered eligible.
Resolves long-standing inconsistencies across committees and aligns with the Flexible Training Policy.
Research Project alignment
The policy now directly addresses the Research Project and aligns with the existing ATRP exemption process. A shorter, dedicated application form mirrors the exemption process form.
Research Project RPL is one of the most commonly requested categories — the tailored approach improves clarity and consistency.
Experience outside formal training
The minimum period has been reduced to 6 full-time equivalent continuous months with equivalent work-based teaching, supervision and assessment to that of an RACP trainee in the relevant training program. For experience in Australia or Aotearoa New Zealand outside a formal program, you'll need to provide evidence that prospective application was not reasonably possible.
Increases clarity and equity while maintaining safeguards to prevent non-accredited roles being used as a back door to specialty training.
Governance and delegation
RPL decisions now follow the same governance processes used for routine progression decisions. The Training Program Committee (TPC) retains full decision-making authority. Secondary Progress Review Panels (PRPs) may assist with recommendations where the TPC considers this suitable. Approaches can evolve as stakeholders become more familiar with their roles.
Mirrors the structure used for progression decisions under the new curricula, improving consistency and reducing burden on assessors.