Mrs Kendra Strong1, Dr David O’Halloran1, Mr Simon Watt1
1Tasmanian Department of Health, Hobart, Australia
Biography:
Simon is a senior healthcare leader and physiotherapist with over 20 years of experience across clinical, health leadership, and regulatory roles in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. Currently the Deputy Chief Allied Health Advisor for the Tasmanian Department of Health, Simon leads statewide allied health initiatives and provides policy and workforce advice for government and health sectors.
With a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from Otago University, an MBA from Deakin University, and credentials from the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Simon brings a blend of operational insight and governance acumen. He has served on national boards and committees, including the Physiotherapy Board of Australia, the Australian Physiotherapy Association and the Australian Pain Society, where he has championed professional standards, regulatory reform, and strategic engagement. His work continues to influence health policy and allied health practice at both state and national levels.
Abstract:
Historically, the Tasmanian Department of Health has not routinely employed graduates in mental health services, resulting in limited opportunities for early career allied health professionals to gain experience in this practice setting.
A graduate program was developed in 2024 to provide a supported pathway for allied health graduates to commence their careers in a mental health practice setting. The objectives of the graduate program were to
1. Develop a comprehensive competency and capability framework for graduate allied health professionals.
2. Develop an education program to align with the competency and capability framework.
3. Ensure effective record keeping and evaluation of graduates’ competency and capability development.
4. Enhance workforce outcomes and retention
The graduate program was piloted with 6 graduates in early 2024 and the project delivered:
1. A Capability Framework and Self-Assessment tools
2. Supervision Guide
3. Rotation Management Guide
4. Peer Support Program,
5. Alcohol and Drug Service Competency Bank
6. A SharePoint resource repository site, which is accessible by graduates, supervisors and managers.
Feedback from graduates, supervisors and managers during the project was positive, indicating that the resources developed to support the graduate program were beneficial. Formal evaluation of the graduate program is yet to occur.