Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Professional Development Year (PDY)

Please refer to the AIR Educational Policies for full details of the PDY programme and requirements

Where can I complete the PDY?

The PDY can be undertaken in any accredited clinical centre in Australia.

How do I find out if the centre I would like to work at is accredited?

Contact your State PAEC or the PAEB at paeb@air.asn.au. A list of currently accredited NSW centres can be viewed by clicking here.

When can I start the PDY?

You are eligible to commence the PDY once you have received your Provisional Statement of Accreditation.

How long is the PDY?

The PDY is 48 weeks full-time equivalent.

How long do I have to complete the PDY?

You must complete the PDY within 3 years of your graduation.

Can I complete the PDY part-time?

If your employer agrees, you may undertake the PDY part-time provided that you complete the equivalent of 48 full-time weeks within three years of your graduation.

How do I advise the AIR where I am completing the PDY?

You should submit the PDY registration form.

What am I expected to do during the PDY?

As a graduate practitioner, you are expected to perform all aspects of the role of an accredited medical imaging or radiation therapy professional except that you will be supervised and may not work independently. Information about the Scope of Practice for the accredited practitioner can be found in the AIR Competency Based Standards.

The Medical Imaging graduate practitioner is expected to competently perform the following procedures under supervision: radiographic examinations of the skeletal, alimentary, genitourinary, hepatobilary and respiratory systems in situations that do not require medically urgent action and, where available, commonly performed operative theatre procedures and ward radiography.

The Radiation Therapy graduate practitioner is expected to competently perform the following procedures under supervision: assume a responsible role in simulation, planning, treatment, quality assurance & quality control, in routine external beam radiation therapy procedures.

Can I work shifts or on-call during the PDY?

After the mid-point of your PDY, if your employer agrees, you may work supervised shifts or supervised on-call in those areas where you have received a "competent" rating in your interim PDY report (24 weeks full-time equivalent).

I've decided to change employers part way through my PDY. What do I do?

Submit a completed PDY report from your previous employer covering the period you have worked at that centre. Submit a PDY registration form to the relevant State PAECwith details of your new employer.

What do I do if I have a problem with my supervisor or I disagree with my PDY report?

As soon as possible contact your State PAEC or the PAEB at paeb@air.asn.au

What do I do if I think it will take me longer than 48 weeks full-time equivalent to finish the PDY?

As soon as possible contact your State PAEC or the PAEB at paeb@air.asn.au



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