College President report
Submitted by: Tom McMillan FACP
College President
I trust this message finds you in good health and high spirits. As we commence the year with the first edition of the College e-communications for 2024, I am thrilled to share some exciting developments within our College.
New registrars joining the Specialisation Training Program (STP)
I am delighted to announce that we have four new registrars set to commence their STP journey in April 2024. We extend our sincere gratitude to all those who are supporting them on this transformative path. Your mentorship and guidance will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of these physiotherapists.
Welcome Vice President Wendy Nickson APAM
A warm congratulations and heartfelt thanks are in order for College Council member Wendy Nickson, who joins the College executive as Vice President. Wendy will be joining Vice President Gen McGlashan FACP and myself at the helm, bringing a wealth of experience in education and dedication to our leadership team. Together, we are poised to lead the College towards new heights of excellence.
Andrew Webster FACP joins College Council
We are pleased to welcome Andrew Webster, FACP to College Council and as the newly appointed Specialisation Training Program (STP) chief examiner. Many of you will know that Andrew has more than six years of experience on the College Council and has most recently been serving as Musculoskeletal group NSW chair. His expertise and insights will be invaluable as we navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. We look forward to his contributions.
Revised Specialisation Training Program (STP)
I am pleased to report that work on the STP is progressing diligently. This initiative aims to enhance the STP to ensure it evolves with the landscape of physiotherapy. The program design is underpinned by the Physiotherapy Competence Framework to ensure the highest rigour and standards are maintained.
Accreditation of the revised STP by the Australian Physiotherapy Council (APC)
We are excited to share that an expression of interest application for the accreditation of the revised STP was submitted and accepted by the Australian Physiotherapy Council in December 2023. The accreditation process is well-resourced, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to achieving accreditation for the revised STP.
Evidence Portfolio Pathway roll-out
In 2024, we will witness the rollout of the Evidence Portfolio Pathway (EPP) to titling, creating more opportunities for College membership titles with equitable access and the opportunity for flexible and individualised learning. It is important to note that this currently does not alter the existing academic pathway to titling and we want to reassure universities on the APA-recognised list, that there will be significant consultation and lead-in time before any changes are implemented.
Acknowledgement to the Board of Censors
I would like to take a moment to express our sincere gratitude to the Board of Censors. Debra Shirley FACP has been confirmed as chief censor in 2024, with Anne Daly FACP serving as deputy chief censor. We extend our deep thanks to Alisa McLachlan FACP and Marg Sherburn FACP for their dedication and service in acting positions during 2023. Your commitment has been invaluable in ensuring the smooth functioning of our critical processes, and we are grateful for your support.
As we embark on another year of excellence, let us continue to uphold the College values. Together, we can achieve great things and elevate the practice of physiotherapy to new heights.
Warm Regards,
Tom
- Tom McMillan FACP, Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist (as awarded by the College of Physiotherapists in 2010)
- Gen McGlashan FACP, Specialist Women’s, Men’s and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist (as awarded by the College of Physiotherapists in 2010)
- Andrew Webster FACP, Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist (as awarded by the College of Physiotherapists in 2015)
- Debra Shirley FACP, Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist (as awarded by the College of Physiotherapists in 2007)
- Anne Daly FACP, Specialist Pain Physiotherapist (as awarded by the College of Physiotherapists in 2021)
- Alisa McLachlan FACP, Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist (as awarded by the College of Physiotherapists in 2019)
- Marg Sherburn FACP, Specialist Women’s, Men’s and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist (as awarded by the College of Physiotherapists in 2010)
