If you’re practising or planning to practise as a radiologist in Australia or New Zealand, it’s important to stay on top of the CPD (Continuing Professional Development) changes that came into effect earlier this year.
These updates, mandated by the Medical Board of Australia (MBA) and the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ), have been in place since January 2025 — but with AHPRA reporting deadlines approaching and mid-year CPD audits beginning, now is the time to ensure you’re compliant.
Here’s a clear summary of what’s new and what you need to do next.
Annual CPD Requirements – What’s Staying the Same?
All radiologists are still expected to complete 50 hours of CPD annually, distributed across three domains:
- Educational activities
- Reviewing performance and reflecting on practice
- Measuring and improving outcomes
This core structure remains unchanged — but several elements within the programme have been revised for clarity, consistency, and accountability.
PACE Activities: Are You Covered?
A major change in 2025 is the requirement to complete at least one activity in each of the new PACE categories:
- Professionalism
- Addressing health inequities
- Culturally safe practice
- Ethical practice
There’s no set number of hours required per category, but at least one activity from each must be logged within your existing 50-hour total.
If you haven’t yet reviewed how your CPD aligns with PACE, now is a good time to check and ensure these are reflected in your ePortfolio.
New ePortfolio Tools – Have You Logged In?
The RANZCR CPD ePortfolio was upgraded for 2025. Key updates include:
- A redesigned dashboard
- Easier document uploads
- Visual progress tracking
- Better alignment with compliance audits
If you’ve not yet explored the new system or started entering 2025 activities, don’t leave it too late. Full compliance will be assessed based on what’s recorded by 31 December.
CPD Status Now Reported to AHPRA
One of the biggest structural shifts in 2025 is that RANZCR must now report CPD status (compliant or non-compliant) for all practitioners to AHPRA — including:
- Fellows and CPD Participants
- Trainees, even those currently on a break
You’ll also be asked to declare your compliance at the time of your annual registration renewal. Inaccurate declarations may trigger further review.
Don’t Forget Your PDP
The Professional Development Plan (PDP) is now an essential CPD component. While many radiologists will have completed this earlier in the year, it’s not too late to upload or finalise it now.
A PDP helps you:
- Set learning goals
- Reflect on clinical performance
- Identify areas for upskilling
Templates are available via the CPD ePortfolio, or you can upload one developed with your employer.
For New Zealand Radiologists
If you’re practising in New Zealand, the MCNZ has introduced two additional annual requirements:
- A structured annual conversation with a peer or supervisor (self-declared in the ePortfolio)
- Evidence that cultural safety is embedded within your CPD activities
These are essential for maintaining your practising certificate.
Anaphylaxis Training – Still Outstanding?
Clinical radiologists must complete anaphylaxis training once every three years, and 2025 is the third year in the current cycle. If you’ve not already completed and logged this training, you’ll need to do so before year-end.
Training can be completed:
- Online
- In person
- As part of Life Support or CPR programmes
RANZCR also provides free training during the Annual Scientific Meeting in October.
Quick Checklist – Are You On Track?
- 50 CPD hours across all three required domains
- One activity in each PACE area
- PDP completed and uploaded
- Annual conversation and cultural safety (NZ only)
- Anaphylaxis training (if clinical)
- All activities recorded in your CPD ePortfolio
- Status ready for AHPRA/MCNZ reporting
Need a reference? Download the full RANZCR CPD Handbook for guidance.
Supporting Radiologists on the Move
If you’re an overseas-trained radiologist planning to migrate to Australia, understanding local CPD obligations is key. GCG supports radiologists through the entire journey — from eligibility checks and AHPRA registration to finding your first role.
Contact our team today if you’d like guidance on the pathway, paperwork, or professional requirements.
