WA Public Health Officer Training Program

The Public Health Emergency Operations Centre launched the pilot WA Public Health Officer Training Program in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic, the National Contact Tracing Review (the Finkel Review), and the WA Health Sustainable Health Review reinforce the need for ongoing investment in public health, data science and innovation. The Finkel Review identified the need for a range of measures to further strengthen contact tracing and outbreak management systems across Australia, including education for public health professionals and the public. The aim of the program is to support the growing public health workforce through the development of an on the job training program that covers core curriculum competency areas that support public health training. The training program has been developed to support each trainee through attendance at teaching and learning activities and a mentor.

The Pilot WA Public Health Officer Training Program (WAPHOTP) is being continued in 2022. The program offers an opportunity for current WA Health employees to participate in a nine-month pilot public health training program running from March to November 2022. It is anticipated that this pilot program will be continued into 2023 as an established three-year funded training program. The three-year program will comprise of six six month rotations to various public health workplaces which will enable the achievement of a wide range of competencies and will be recognized by a certificate of completion.

Trainees in the pilot program will be provided 4 hours/week of paid work time to undertake:

• Teaching and learning activities covering a range of public health knowledge and skills.
• Meetings with a training coordinator to assist in mapping workplace duties and outputs against the achievement of curriculum competencies.
• Monthly meetings with a mentor who is an experienced, senior public health practitioner.
• Field trip opportunities to various community health services to enhance their understanding of public health in WA.

Curriculum

The WAPHOTP’s curriculum (PDF 364KB) is based on the New South Wales Public Health Officer Training Program curriculum with the addition of the cultural competence and Aboriginal health curriculum competency area. This was adopted from the Australasian Faculty of Public Health Medicine’s (AFPHM) curriculum.

The curriculum competency areas comprise of:

Teaching and learning activities

Trainees will have access, and be expected, to participate in teaching and learning activities throughout the nine-month program. Most of these will be delivered in flipped-classroom style with trainees undertaking up to one hour of preparatory work before an interactive activity.

Towards the end of the program, trainees will choose their own learning topics and be coached by the training coordinators to develop a teaching and learning activity for their peers.

Most activities are paired with an informal talk by one or two health leaders sharing their public health journey and explaining their role in the Australian health care system followed by a Q&A.

Mentoring

The WAPHOTP is fortunate to have the support of senior public health practitioners who generously donate their time to mentor trainees.

The program’s expectation is that mentees will organise monthly meetings with their mentor. These can be in person or by tele- or video-conference. The first and second meeting involves trainees and mentors introducing themselves to each other and agreeing on goals for the relationship over the course of the program.

Trainees are asked to remember that a mentor is NOT a teacher or supervisor.

While the content and approach of meetings is up to the mentor and mentee, the program suggests that meetings could be used to:

• Help trainees to deepen their understanding of curriculum competency areas covered in the program’s teaching and learning activities by reflecting on what was learned and how it can be applied to their current or future work and/or suggesting additional readings/videos/podcasts
• Encourage trainees to talk about concepts covered in the program’s teaching and learning activities which they are struggling to understand or see the relevance of
• Help trainees to understand their strengths and areas for development
• Discuss options for professional development, including formal public health education, membership of professional associations, attending ad-hoc lectures/seminars
• Explore opportunities for learning about and getting involved in research
• Explore public health career options in the government, non-government organisation (NGO) and private sectors

The WA Health Mentoring Resources (intranet site), CAPHIA mentoring program guidance and PHAA’s Mentoring Pack (this will be provided when mentors and mentees are connected with each other) provide further guidance and advice for a mutually beneficial mentoring relationship.

Work life balance

Trainees will be provided 4 hours/week of paid work time to undertake:

• Teaching and learning activities covering a range of public health knowledge and skills.
• Meetings with a training coordinator to assist in mapping workplace duties and outputs against the achievement of curriculum competencies.
• Monthly meetings with a mentor who is an experienced, senior public health practitioner.
• Field trip opportunities to various community health services to enhance their understanding of public health in WA.

Trainees have the option to attend all activities, except fieldtrips, virtually via Microsoft Teams.

Support

Trainees are supported every step of the way in their personal and professional development.

• Program coordinators: This is the first point of contact for everyone involved in the program.
• Line manager: Each trainee’s line manager is supporting their professional development by providing 4 hours/week of paid work time to participate in the WAPHOTP.
• Mentors: These are experienced senior public health professionals with over 10 years’ experience selected to provide you with career support and enhance your program experience.
• In addition to the above, people with disability will be provided with appropriate adjustments and/or support in the workplace.

Networking opportunities

• Participation in the teaching and learning activities and mentoring program provide plenty of opportunities for networking with like-minded peers and experienced public health practitioners and health leaders across the health and health-related sectors.
• Public Health Officer Trainee Networking and Learning group: This MS Teams group provides trainees with an opportunity to develop supportive relationships, and to share with, and learn from, their peers.

Eligibility criteria

1. Eligible candidates must be currently employed by WA Health either working, or available to be deployed to work, in WA Health’s COVID-19 response if surge staff are required from 1 March to 2 December 2022. 
2. Recent completion of, or current enrolment in, a recognised qualification in public health or a public health-related field.
3. Written confirmation from current line manager that the employer will support participation by allowing attendance at WA PHOTP meetings, teaching and learning activities for the equivalent of 4 hours/week during paid work time.
4. Trainees of the 2021 pilot WA PHOTP are NOT eligible to apply.

How to apply

If you are interested in applying, please complete the online form and upload documents demonstrating eligibility criteria (CV, Confirmation of support from your current line manager, academic transcripts and contact details of two professional referees) here by Tuesday 30^th November at 1700. You must include a written response to the following three questions in your application:

• Describe how your past work experience has provided you with an understanding of the complexities involved in developing or implementing robust public health solutions within the context of the Australian health care system (300 words max).
• Provide an example of how you have successfully used evidence to influence a decision or solve a problem at work. Please include how you approached the task and the outcome (300 words max).
• Provide an example of a challenging stakeholder relationship that you have managed, which required consultation/negotiation/influence to achieve an outcome. Please include the background, reasoning and outcome (300 words max).

Selection process and timeline

• Written applications will be reviewed in early December 2021
• Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend a group interview in late January 2022
• Following the group assessment, shortlisted applicants will have 30 minutes to write a reflection (300 words max) about the group assessment experience.
• All applicants will be notified of the selection process outcome in February 2022.

NOTE: Selection into the 2022 pilot program does not guarantee a position in future years of the WAPHOTP.

Written application

Read the application requirements carefully and ensure your application is complete. Incomplete applications will not be assessed. Remember, this is an opportunity to make a great first impression.

Addressing the selection criteria is essential when applying for any job in the public sector. The STAR approach may help you to demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.

Proofread your application thoroughly, checking for grammar, syntax, spelling or typographical errors.

If possible, ask someone with good English literacy (e.g. a family member, colleague or friend) to read your application and provide feedback so you can improve your application.

Group assessment

The group assessment will be used to assess an applicant’s ability to work in a team.

• Be aware that you are being assessed on your contribution – this does not mean the loudest and brashest are the most competent.
• Demonstrate your ability to lead by keeping the group focussed on what you need to achieve as a group (using positive encouragement rather than coercion and intimidation).
• As with most exercises, keep track of the time.

Trainee testimonials

James Macatangay, Clinical Nurse, Public Health Emergency Operations

“My experience with WA Public Health Officer Training Program allowed me to meet incredible individuals and health leaders who have the same level of passion for public health service. Also, it offered me a great opportunity of meeting my mentor, Dr Gemma Crawford, who, through the mentorship program, shared with me her journey on becoming a public health pracademic and her expertise about improving my portfolios so I can access great opportunities in public health. Overall, I consider myself privileged to be part of this pilot program, as it inspired me to start my career in public health, to be more involved in public health programs, and to aspire on becoming a future public health leader.”

Whitney Melville, Surveillance Officer, Public Health Emergency Operations

“Being successful in my application to participate in the Western Australian Public Health Officer Traineeship pilot program, signified a first step in developing my public health career. The opportunity to complete the traineeship and post-graduate studies concurrently has been a challenging, but wonderful opportunity, enabling a deeper understanding and practical application of public health issues.

Through participation in the traineeship, I have received mentoring by a key public health leader, Professor Mike Daube who has provided me with study and career advice and I endeavour to maintain this invaluable professional network throughout my career. Professor Mike Daube encouraged me to become involved in the Public Health Association of Australia, which has seen me provide commentary and feedback on public health policies including the WHO Global Strategy on Oral Diseases.

Additionally, participation in the traineeship has allowed me to develop networks across WA Health, has strengthened professional relationships, increased my confidence and developed public speaking skills. One of my favourite moments in the traineeship was the opportunity to be in the audience of an open panel discussion of key health leaders, hearing the highs, lows and challenging moments of their public health careers. I am extremely grateful to have participated within the traineeship and I am hopeful it will act as a launchpad for my career in public health.” 

Chantelle Pears, clinical nurse, Pilbara Public Health Unit

“Maurice has shared his invaluable insight, knowledge and experience with me over the past year and he has been a great advocate for me as an emerging public health clinician. Thanks for providing me with this opportunity.”

Chantelle Pears, clinical nurse, Pilbara Public Health Unit, with her “incredibly inspiring mentor” Maurice Swanson, OAM, Chief Executive, Australian Council on Smoking and Health

Mentor Testimonials

Ms Shireen Martin, Director, Integrated Care Implementation, NSW Health

“This is my first time participating in a formalised mentoring program. I volunteered because I thought it would be a good experience. It has been very rewarding mentoring Rourke, he has progressed from clinician to COVID project lead at a central government organisation. I feel his confidence in his ability and in his contribution has grown. It has been a great experience.”

Dr Daniel Vujcich, Research Fellow, Curtin University

“I am currently a Research Fellow at Curtin University, responsible for overseeing the national Migrant Blood-borne Virus and Sexual Health Survey. Prior to entering academia, I worked in community sector as a Sexual Health Project Coordinator at the Aboriginal Health Council of Western Australia and also as a Senior Policy Officer in the Sexual Health and Blood-borne Virus Program at WA Health. Participating in the WAPHOT program feels a little bit like returning to the place where my journey began. While at WA Health, I was lucky to benefit from the kindness of a number of excellent mentors including Professor Donna Mak who, aptly enough, now heads the WAPHOT program.

I subscribe to the adage that the rising tide lifts all boats, and I firmly believe that professionals should share one another’s successes and look for ways of creating opportunities for one another. It has been a great experience mentoring Jenny, who has in turn taught me many things through this process. She was always destined to go far but will, no doubt, go further for having had the opportunity to engage in this excellent training program.”

Emeritus Professor Mike Daube, AO

“It is a real privilege to be part of the WAPHOTP mentoring program. WA has a rich history of public health pioneers, leaders, researchers, advocates and contributors at all levels, and there are important roles for all of us to play. I have benefited enormously from the support of mentors at all stages of my career, and I hope that those of us who have been around for a while can help in providing similar levels of support to the next generations.”

Emeritus Professor Mike Daube, AO with WAPHOTP trainee Whitney Melville and his dog Dr Olivia Doll (Perth’s Smartest Dog!)

Ms Karen Bradley, State Health Incident Control Centre

“Supporting an employee to participate in the program has not only helped to build knowledge, confidence and career opportunities for the participant, but also enhanced the whole team’s professional networks, built productive relationships and improved access to public health knowledge and expertise. This will have a lasting benefit, long after participation in the program has ended.”

Ms Pauline Glasson, Acting Public Health Manager, WA Country Health Service (WACHS) Pilbara

“I think it’s important to encourage and support colleagues in completing any professional development opportunity that comes their way – especially when its free and supported by WACHS! The benefits of having an employee participating in the program is the sharing of knowledge and skills within the team. This includes the participant to increase their networks and connections made with other like-minded people in the public health field. Both of these aspects are advantageous for our team due to the potential in adopting new and possibly more efficient processes or perspectives. We should never stop learning and being open to new experiences.”

Ms Pauline Glasson, Acting Public Health Manager, WA Country Health Service (WACHS) Pilbara, represented by Immy the immunisation echidna

Ms Maree Hose, Nurse Coordinator, PHEOC

“Having worked in WA Health regional and metropolitan public health units as a disease control nurse for many years, I am very excited to be able to support the WAPHOTP. I have met most of the enthusiastic trainees, both those that are based in PHEOC Operations and those from other health services. We have been fortunate to have some of the trainees work as PHOPs surveillance officers in the recent community outbreak - getting first-hand experience of pandemic work! The public health workforce in WA has not had, until now, an education program that provides a pathway into public health and I am very excited that this pilot program might lead to an ongoing education program and be the basis of a solid WA public health workforce into the future.” /p>

• Evaluation of the WA Public Health Officer Training Program (PDF 2MB)

• Pilot WA Public Health Officer Training Program Communiqué: December 2022
• Pilot WA Public Health Officer Training Program Communiqué: November 2022
• Pilot WA Public Health Officer Training Program Communiqué: September 2022
• Pilot WA Public Health Officer Training Program Communiqué: August 2022
• Pilot WA Public Health Officer Training Program Communiqué: July 2022
• Pilot WA Public Health Officer Training Program Communiqué: May 2022
• Pilot WA Public Health Officer Training Program Communiqué: April 2022
• Pilot WA Public Health Officer Training Program Communiqué: December 2021
• Pilot WA Public Health Officer Training Program Communiqué: August 2021
• Pilot WA Public Health Officer Training Program Communiqué: July 2021

Who can apply?

Eligibility criteria

1. Currently employed by WA Health either working, or available to be deployed to work, in WA Health’s COVID-19 response if surge staff are required from 1 March to 2 December 2022. 
2. Recent completion of, or current enrolment in, a recognised qualification in public health or a public health-related field.
3. Written confirmation from current line manager that the employer will support participation by allowing attendance at WA PHOTP meetings, teaching and learning activities for the equivalent of 4 hours/week during paid work time.
4. Trainees of the 2021 pilot WA PHOTP are NOT eligible to apply.

How do I apply?

If you are interested in applying, please complete the online form and upload documents demonstrating eligibility criteria (CV, Confirmation of support from your current line manager, academic transcripts and contact details of two professional referees) here by  Tuesday 30^th November 2021 at 1700. You must include a written response to the following three questions in your application:

• Describe how your past work experience has provided you with an understanding of the complexities involved in developing or implementing robust public health solutions within the context of the Australian health care system (300 words max).
• Provide an example of how you have successfully used evidence to influence a decision or solve a problem at work. Please include how you approached the task and the outcome (300 words max).
• Provide an example of a challenging stakeholder relationship that you have managed, which required consultation/negotiation/influence to achieve an outcome. Please include the background, reasoning and outcome (300 words max).

When will I know the outcome of my application?

• Written applications will be reviewed in early December 2021
• Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend a group assessment in late January 2022
• Following the group assessment, shortlisted applicants will have 30 minutes to write a reflection (300 words max) about the group assessment experience.
• All applicants will be notified of the selection process outcome in February 2022.

NOTE: Selection into the 2022 pilot program does not guarantee a position in future years of the WAPHOTP.

What do you look for in a trainee?

Previously successful applicants have had experience in the health sector, good problem solving and research skills, good written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work both autonomously and in a team work environment.

How many positions are available?

There will be up to 12 traineeships available in 2022.

When does the 2022 Pilot Training Program commence?

The program will commence in March 2022.

When do applications open and close?

Applications open in early November and close at 5pm 30 November 2021.  Interviews for shortlisted applicants will be conducted throughout January 2022.

When will you be making offers to the successful applicants?

Offers to successful applicants will occur in February 2022 following completion of the group interviews.

What is the duration of the 2022 Pilot Training Program?

The 2022 Pilot WAPHOTP is a nine-month program.

How long has WAPHOTP been running?

The inaugural Pilot WAPHOTP launched on 9 April 2021 and will continue as a pilot in 2022. 

What happens at the end of the 2022 Pilot Training Program?

It is anticipated that this program will be continued into 2023 as an established three-year funded training program comprising of 6 six-month rotations to a variety of public health workplaces to enable achievement of a wide range of competencies (see curriculum framework attachment below) and recognised by a certificate of completion.