The CPD year ends 30 November. Here’s what you need to know to make sure you’ve completed the Ahpra-set requirements

The 2023/2024 CPD year is coming to a close on 30 November. With our extensive events calendar, on-demand CPD library, OA publication and CPD help page, we’ve got everything you need to cruise to the finish line and start preparing for 2025.

Please note that alongside your CPD Portfolio, Ahpra also requires that optometrists renew their CPR certificate every three years as part of your CPD. We recommend that you check the date of your last certificate and book a refresher course if necessary. OA and the state divisions offer CPR courses which you can find on our events listing page. Alternatively, check our FAQ page for more information or help finding a Commonwealth accredited provider.

Below are three possible scenarios that may apply to the status of your CPD portfolio at this time, and some suggestions for how you can complete your education requirements.

Scenario 1: I have completed my full minimum requirement of CPD hours, added all my reflections and am already preparing my learning goals for the next CPD year.

Great job! The 2024/25 CPD year is now available to select in your CPD portfolio. You can write your learning goals and start selecting CPD activities for next year. And, if you’re feeling particularly energised and want to go above the minimum hours, there will likely be additional activities taking place over the next two months that align with your learning goals.

Scenario 2: I still need to gain some additional hours.

You can search for Optometry Australia Institute of Excellence quality assured CPD activities via the CPD Events Listing. Filters can be applied to the listing, including location and upcoming interactive and/or therapeutic activities, if you are short of hours with those classifications.

Alternatively, you can organise your own interactive discussions and upload the activity to your CPD portfolio by clicking ‘add new’ under the My Own Activities heading. More information on how to obtain interactive CPD hours independently can be found on our CPD Help page.

And don’t forget, we have a huge variety of on-demand CPD available for free in the Institute of Excellence!

Scenario 3: I have not completed my minimum required CPD hours and circumstances will prevent me from doing so.

You should complete the form ‘Application for exemption from continuing professional development – ECPD-50′, available at Optometry Board of Australia – Continuing professional development page as soon as possible.

If you need any support completing the form or would like to confidentially discuss your specific circumstances, our Optometry Advisor Help Desk is available to support you. You can contact the help desk via OAhelpdesk@optometry.org.au or by calling 03 9668 8500.