11 / 30
2015 ANNUAL REPORT Speech Pathology Australia
11
Embedding Simulation
Embedding Simulation in Clinical Training in
Speech Pathology Project – Phase 2 Department of
Health Funding
Speech Pathology Australia was successful in
gaining further funding from the Department of Health
(Commonwealth) to implement this large multi-site
project. The “Embedding Simulation in Clinical Training
in Speech Pathology” Phase 2 project is being led on
behalf of the Association by a leadership team from
seven Australian universities. The overall aim of this
project is to determine if students in accredited speech
pathology programs achieve a comparable level of
competency in placements when an average of 20 per
cent of the placement time is replaced with simulated
learning activities compared to traditional clinical
placements.
The Phase 2 project began in May 2015. In the period
from May to December 2015, the focus of the project
was on development of the simulation model, an
initial trial (conducted at UQ in October 2015), and
on preparation for the implementation phase of the
randomised controlled trial to begin in January 2016.
The project will continue until February 2018.
In November 2015, the Association launched
Speech
Pathology 2030 – making futures happen
.
This landmark project aims to engage members of the
profession in the development of a shared vision for how the
profession will successfully respond to change over the next
decade and beyond.
Between December 2015 and August 2016, a range
of consultation activities pursuant to the project will be
undertaken. These activities will involve speech pathologists
(both Speech Pathology Australia members and non-
members), as well as clients and other stakeholders.
The project’s final report will be published in Speech Pathology
Week in August 2016. The progress of the project and relevant
information and documentation can be accessed from the
Association website.
A New Home for SPA
In June 2015, Speech Pathology Australia relocated its
National Office into new premises at Level 1, 114 William
Street, Melbourne. The Association’s new offices are
professional, modern and easily accessible. The move saw
the Association move approximately 250 metres from the old
offices in Bank Place, which had served the organisation for
more than 18 years.
The decision to move came after a year of market analysis
and financial investigations by the Association’s Board. It was
determined that the Association would retain and rent out its
offices at Bank Place and move to new leased premises.
Speech Pathology 2030