Speak Out OCTOBER 2021 DIGITAL EDITION

Association NEWS

Employing overseas qualified speech pathologists

Impact of COVID on skilled migration The Australian government has developed a Priority Skills Migration Occupation List (PSMOL) in the context of the COVID pandemic. Only occupations on this list will be considered for skilled migration to Australia. Speech pathologists are currently NOT on this list. Speech Pathology Australia is investigating how to be included on this list. Organisations may choose to sponsor an individual; however, there is no guarantee that a person will be prioritised for travel to Australia at this time to take up a position. Key points If you are considering employing an overseas trained speech pathologist, consider the following aspects: • It may take up to two years for an individual to complete an application if they are required to undertake further formal or informal study. • Requests to modify the process, timelines, requirements and/or standards are not considered so as to maintain the fair, equitable manner for all applications received. SPA is not able to provide letters of support for the Australian government regarding individual applicants. It is the responsibility of the employer to ensure that employees meet their requirements before offering a position and/or permitting a person to commence in a role. SPA is unable to provide employers with any information regarding an applicant’s status of submission and/or likelihood of successful completion, • A positive skills assessment is not sufficient on its own to join as a CPSP member. The individual must also meet the recency of practice and continuing professional development requirements. • • •

Overseas trained speech pathologists are an important and valued part of Australia’s workforce. This article provides you with an insight and overview on what is involved. Did you know? Speech Pathology Australia is recognised by the Australian Government, Department of Home Affairs as the assessing authority for speech pathologists intending to apply for skilled migration to Australia. As a member of the National Alliance of Self-Regulating Health Professions (NASRHP), Speech Pathology Australia must meet benchmark standards. • There are two pathways for overseas trained speech pathologists to apply for a skills assessment. o Mutual Recognition of Professional Association Credentials (MRA) and o Overseas Qualification Competency Assessment (OSQ) o Applicants have up to two years to complete the process in • The scope of practice and standards of speech pathologists differs across the world. SPA’s assessment process has been developed to ensure protection of the public and to maintain the standards of the profession in Australia. • A skills assessment is valid for two years therefore an individual has up to two years to join as a Certified Practising Speech Pathology (CPSP) member with SPA. At the time of joining, recency of practice and continuing professional development requirements are reviewed to check that these requirements are met. • Successful assessment by SPA does NOT ensure the individual can migrate to Australia. Approval for migration is the responsibility of the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs. acknowledgement they may need to undertake further study to meet requirements.

For more details please refer to the website .

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Speak Out | October 2021