SpeakOut_Feb2014_electronic

ASSOCIATION NEWS

Thank you to the SPA membership for demonstrating your commitment to ongoing professional education by meeting CPSP requirements with your 2014 renewal …

The percentage of CPSPs in 2014 is a marked increase on the 2013 renewals. At this point in time, over 94% of eligible 2014 members have earned CPSP status (excluding non-eligible membership categories and new graduates). This is a fantastic growth from last year where the percentage was 72%, which was in itself a marked increase from the preceding years (for renewals from 2003 to 2012, the percentage of eligible members who were CPSP ‘sat’ consistently at around 45%). Looking to 2015 renewals … The Association will continue to aim to strengthen the demonstration of members’ commitment and obligation to undertake professional development – as reflected in earning CPSP status. SPA views continuing professional education as an integral component of professional practice and an underlying responsibility of practising members. SPA will continue to communicate with members in regard to future developments and strengthening of CPSP status. This direction is reflected in the Association’s new strategic plan, to be distributed to members in the near future. If you undertook PSR activities that count towards CPSP status but did not declare them when you renewed or are on Direct Debit, it’s not too late to submit your PSR Declaration now. You can either download the PSR Declaration form online and email it in, or contact National Office for an electronic declaration to be emailed to you. Once your record is updated to reflect that you have met the requirements to be a CPSP, you will be mailed a revised membership certificate that includes your CPSP status. Please feel free to contact Sharon Crane, Senior Advisor, Professional Education & Certification, at National Office on 1300 368 835 or email scrane@speechpathologyaustralia.org.au . You can still submit PSR points for your 2014 renewal – it’s not too late to earn CPSP status for 2014.

SHARON CRANE Senior Advisor Professional Education and Certification (CPD & PSR)

Time to get your Association award nominations in now!

AS A NEW YEAR begins, it is time to get pen to paper and start nominating your colleagues for an Association award. The Association offers a range of awards to recognise those members that have contributed significantly to the profession and the Association. Members from many backgrounds, with varying years of experience and contribution can be nominated. The range of awards includes the Early Career Award, for those members new to the profession who have demonstrated leadership and excellence in their contributions to the Association, through to the awards of Life Membership and Fellowship, which recognises those with considerable experience including broad and ongoing contribution to the profession. Don’t forget the Community Contribution award, available for non-member organisations and individuals who have

contributed through activities including lobbying and advocacy for the profession. If you know of a member you believe should be recognised for their contribution to the profession and Association, start nominating now! If you are uncertain of which award and how to nominate, further detail of the range of awards, criteria and nomination process can be located under the Information for Members tab on the website. Award nominations must be forwarded to National Office before the end of April to ensure recipients receive their award at the 2014 AGM (May 2014). For further information contact Gaenor Dixon via email at vp.gdixon@speechpathologyaustralia.org.au .

GAENOR DIXON Vice President Communications

Speak Out February 2014

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